Get To Know Your Wild Neighbors

On September 26 organizational partners from throughout California gathered to celebrate the U.S. launch of the Robert Bateman’s “Get to Know” program. Two launch events, which were held at the Los Angeles County Zoo and San Diego Museum of Natural History, signaled the beginning of an art, photography and writing contest for children ages 1-18.

The U.S. Forest Service joined forces with the Get to Know Society, the National Wildlife Federation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Children and Nature Network to bring this exciting educational program to children in California, and across the United States.

There are countless ways to participate in the contest. First, figure out where to go to see your wild neighbors. Here are some ideas: your backyard, a neighborhood park, your schoolyard, your national forests, a local zoo, aquarium or natural history museum. Next, capture your experience through art, writing, or photography. Let your imagination lead the way as you get to know the animals who live in your neighborhood, park or forest. All entries must be postmarked or submitted online no later than November 30, 2009.

Log onto http://www.gettoknow.ca/us/contest/