INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Local schools are now receiving packets of information from the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) for this year’s “Making a Difference in MY World” contest. Geared to students from kindergarten through fifth grade, the purpose of the contest is to encourage environmental awareness and student creativity in the understanding of natural resources.
According to ELC volunteer co-chairs Patty and Walter Garrard, the theme for this year’s contest is “Livin’ for the Lagoon,” emphasizing stewardship of the Indian River Lagoon. Each grade level has its own specific project types and subjects. Any local elementary school-age student is eligible to participate, and there is no charge to enter. Teachers and parents alike are reminded to follow the entry rules carefully to avoid disqualification. Application forms are also available online at www.DiscoverELC.org.
All projects must arrive at the ELC from the schools, or home-schooled participants, on Tuesday, Feb. 24. Judges from the community will then assess the projects and choose the winners, who will be announced at the ELC’s EcoFest on Sunday, March 1. Winners from kindergarten through second grade will be announced at 1 p.m. Winners from 3rd through 5th grades will be announced at 3 p.m. All entries will be on display in the ELC classrooms during EcoFest.
The ELC is located north of Vero Beach off County Road 510 at the end of the Wabasso Bridge. Its 64-acre campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop, and visitor center. ELC membership benefits, a list of its many field excursions, EcoVentures, including nature walks, canoe excursions, and boating adventures can be found at www.DiscoverELC.org.
The mission of the ELC is to provide stimulating environmental education programs that instill an understanding of the natural world, enrich people’s lives, and inspire participants to be active stewards of the surrounding natural resources.