Cato-Meridian Elementary School students Linnea Brathen and Collin Simons recently earned accolades for their detailed, thoughtful writing in the 2023 Conservation Field Days Essay Contest.

The contest invites sixth grade students throughout the region to write about the annual Conservation Field Days, which they attended in September at Emerson Park in Auburn. Co-sponsored by the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District and Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County, the program gives students an opportunity to become better acquainted with natural resources and the environment. Students heard from professionals in various fields and saw nature and conservation related occupations in action.

Linnea’s piece, “The Soil Health Station,” earned second place honors. She explained that the soil health station taught her how to treat soil and called it “the most memorable.” Read her entire essay at: http://www.cayugaswcd.org/uploads/1/1/4/3/11439932/2nd_place.pdf

Collin’s piece, “Ducks And Wetlands,” earned third place honors. In his essay, Collin stated that wetlands have lots of water and attract animals: “The water helps protect the ducks that live there from animals that could eat them.” Read his entire essay at: http://www.cayugaswcd.org/uploads/1/1/4/3/11439932/3rd_place.pdf

Winners of the essay contest will receive bluebird houses, and/or certificates for tree seedlings.