Wildlife Forever and The International Game Fish Association | A Partnership Continued
We are excited to announce the continuation of our partnership with Wildlife Forever for the 2024-25 Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest. This year, the specialty Debris Division Award returns (submissions open now through February 28, 2025), challenging student artists to participate in a fresh or saltwater habitat cleanup in their community. Students will use the collected plastic waste or found objects to create artwork depicting game fish.
The Debris Division Award highlights the IGFA’s Habits for Habitats initiative, aiming to raise awareness within the recreational angling community and beyond about the importance of healthy habitats for thriving fisheries.
“We are so proud to have IGFA as a committed partner in youth conservation education. Using art to build connections to nature is one of the most powerful ways to inspire stewardship,” said Veronica Mangio, Marketing and Education Manager of Wildlife Forever.
The end goal of this partnership, specifically through the Debris Division and the development of Habits for Habitats lesson plans, is to increase awareness of the global effort to understand the effects of plastic pollution on wildlife, particularly in both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems.
“We’ve seen the power that the Fish Art program has in fostering youth conservation connections. I’m thrilled to continue our partnership with Wildlife Forever to educate youth about the negative impact plastic pollution can have on game fish habitats posing a threat to not only fish but also marine mammals, birds, and sea turtles,” said Lisa Morse, Education Director of the IGFA.
Want to be a part of this awesome competition? Here are some guidelines for participation:
• Clean and sanitize the collected debris using a bleach/water solution.
• Properly dispose of or recycle any debris not used in the artwork.
• Create your artwork on a base such as wood, canvas, cardboard, or any solid structure to support the debris.
• Additional materials such as glue, scissors, and paint can be used alongside plastic waste or found objects to complete the piece.
In addition to the above guidelines, be sure to follow these safety recommendations for habitat clean ups:
• Always conduct cleanups with a buddy and/or an adult.
• Avoid trespassing on private property.
• Be aware of your surroundings, including cliffs, rough seas, wildlife, and other potential hazards.
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and hats.
• Avoid picking up sharp objects or ask an adult to assist with their safe removal.
• Contact a local wildlife organization if you encounter injured animals.
You can learn more about this contest, access additional educational resources, submit an entry and more by clicking here.
Wildlife Forever is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to conserving America’s outdoor heritage through conservation education, habitat restoration, and scientific management of fish and wildlife. With a commitment to maximizing impact, 96% of every dollar donated goes directly to conservation programs. Learn more about the Art of Conservation® Fish Art Contest™, Songbird Art Contest™, Clean Drain Dry Initiative™, and Prairie City USA® at www.wildlifeforever.org.
About the Fish Art Program
The Wildlife Forever Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest® is supported by Title Sponsor, Bass Pro Shops. Key partners and sponsors also include the USDA Forest Service, Guy Harvey Foundation, The National Fish Habitat Partnership, Rapala and a growing list of state agency hosts. Together, through conservation arts and integrated STEAM programming, the Art of Conservation programs serve as a global effort to inspire and educate the next generation. The contest is free to enter and open to students worldwide. For more information, visit www.FishArt.org.