The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District invites senior citizens to think spring and enter the 15th annual Arbor day Poetry Contest.  Poets of all abilities, from first-timers to seasoned, can submit a lantern poem based on the theme “Hope Grows Through Trees.”

A lantern poem is a Japanese form containing five lines with a syllable count of 1-2-3-4-1, and free rhyme scheme.  The composition takes the shape of a lantern.

“The Arbor Day Poetry Contest has become a mud season favorite among our senior citizens,” said District Manager Caitlin Stewart.  “This contest has blossomed in participation, and we change up theme and poetry form annually to keep things spicy!”

Poems must be original and handwritten or typed. Colorful poems and additional media are encouraged.  Entries must include on the back the author’s name, mailing address, email, and phone number.

Entries must be mailed, emailed, or delivered by Friday April 24, 2023 to the Hamilton County SWCD, POB 166, 103 County View Drive,  Lake Pleasant NY 12108, caitlinstewart@hamiltoncountyswcd.org.

Awards ceremonies will honor poets with certificates and prizes.

Arbor Day is April 28 and celebrates the importance, planting, and nurturing of trees.

The District has been working to manage and promote the wise use of natural resources in Hamilton County since 1965.  For more information go to www.hamiltoncountyswcd.org or call 518-548-3991.