It's that time of year, when aspiring artists of all ages are encouraged to showcase their talent by competing in the logo art contest for the 14th Annual International Migratory Bird Day Celebration at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

The winning artwork will be the official trademark of the celebration to be held at the refuge on May 10, 2008. It will appear on all of the event-related materials including: the program, flyers, T-shirts, and other items.

"The logo art contest allows individuals to express their appreciation of the natural beauty of migratory birds," said Refuge Manager Lou Hinds. "Nature has always been a source of inspiration for artists here at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge."
Interested artists should submit an original, line-art drawing of a migratory bird that occurs on Chincoteague Refuge except for the following: the pine warbler, American woodcock, belted kingfisher, green heron, black-necked stilt, osprey and the bald eagle. All have been selected as winning birds in previous contests.

In order to compete, submitted art must be in pen and ink, but artists can submit as many pieces as they wish. The logo art should be clean and precise, as it will be reduced to fit in a number of event-related items, including buttons that are approximately three inches in diameter.

The contestants' art will not be mailed back; however, contestants may pick up their artwork at the refuge after the contest has ended. The only exception is the winning submission, which will become the property of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Contestants must submit their art work to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge by close of business on Monday, March 28, 2008.

To submit a drawing, please send artwork to Sally Bowden at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, PO. Box 62, Chincoteague, Virginia, 23336. For more information, call (757) 336-6122.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov .