Turtles have been on earth since the time of the dinosaurs, now they are disappearing. Of the world's over 270 turtle species, almost 150 are either threatened or endangered. In New York State alone, 12 of New York's 17 native turtles are listed as endangered, threatened or species of special concern. Because turtles are in a state of crisis in so many parts of the world, strong conservation measures must be taken, now.
This contest was formed to help educate both children and adults concerning the plight of turtles and tortoises, why species are facing extinction and what must be done to help save them. Past contests have received over 1,000 entries from all 50 states, Canada, and Bermuda. See list of winners of the 2001 Poster Contest.
According to Lorri Cramer, the contest's creator and organizer, “The poster should focus on one particular type of turtle or tortoise, which can be from any part of the world. The poster should address why that particular species is threaten or endangered and what might be done to help save it.”
Entries will be grouped according to age and grade level for judging. All entries will be judged by a panel of conservationists, artists and teachers on the basis content, originality and artistic merit.
Prizes will include official Turtle Society T-shirts, books, and a one-year membership to the New York Turtle and Tortoise Society. The semi-finalists will be exhibited at the Annual Turtle and Tortoise Society Show in New York City in June 2002. The winners will be announced in October 2002. All posters will become the property of NYTTS.
For specific information about turtles for children, a teacher might seek out the book Turtles, by Anita Baskin-Salzberg and Allen Salzberg. The 64-page book includes numerous charts and color photos of turtles and tortoises. The book’s Web site includes a sample chapter on sea turtles as well as ordering information.