In its fourth year, the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection (DEP) is soliciting nominations for the 2012-13 Eco-Art Contest.

The contest provides an opportunity for students to gain statewide recognition for their artwork as it relates to Kentucky’s environment. Used as a tool for environmental education, art supports DEP’s mission to protect Kentucky’s environment.

Multiple awards will be presented to eligible Kentucky high school students who create art using the contest themes or categories of conservation, pollution prevention and environmental protection. Students may submit artwork using the media types of drawing/painting/print, mixed media, sculpture and photographs, with one winner for each submitted art type within each category.

Artwork from previous years’ contest winners is displayed in the DEP Training Center in Frankfort, where it has been viewed by hundreds of visitors.

Contest nominations are being accepted until close of business March 15, 2013. All nominations must be sent to envhelp@ky.gov. A digital picture of each artwork nomination must accompany each form submitted. Eligible students include all students enrolled in Kentucky public and private high schools for the 2012-13 academic year. Winners will be notified during Earth Week in April, and winning entries will be displayed in the DEP Training Center at 300 Fair Oaks Lane in Frankfort.

For more information about the Eco-Art Contest and to access a nomination form, visit http://dca.ky.gov/LGGS/Pages/ecoart.aspx or call the Division of Compliance Assistance toll-free at (800) 926-8111.