In an effort to teach young people about the importance of protecting the planet, State Sen. Patty Ritchie is inviting local students in grades kindergarten through 6th to take part in the New York State Senate’s annual “Earth Day Poster Contest.”

The theme of this year’s contest is “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” Posters should depict solutions to problems concerning recycling and waste reduction, as well as encourage others to take steps to protect our planet.

“Protecting our planet is a team effort, and it’s critical that children are taught that important lesson at a young age,” said  Ritchie. “By participating in this contest, students are given the opportunity not only to exercise their creativity, but also to learn about the ways they can pitch in to safeguard the environment.”

Sen. Ritchie is teaming up with the Ogdensburg Boys and Girls Club, the Oswego Public Library and the Fairgrounds YMCA in Watertown to display the winning posters during the week of Earth Day.

Ritchie represents the western half of St. Lawrence County including Ogdensburg, Canton and Gouverneur.

Winning posters will also be featured on Senator Ritchie’s website, www.ritchie.nysenate.gov, and all participants will receive a special certificate. Those looking to enter the contest must submit entries by April 13th, 2018 and can do so through Senator Ritchie’s website.

Established as a special way to highlight the importance of protecting the environment, the first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. This year, Earth Day will take place on April 22.