BLM teaches responsible outdoor recreation through art

The Bureau of Land Management Lakeview Field Office hosted the annual 'Stop the Litter and the Vandalism' poster program with the Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association and Tread Lightly! recently. This year's theme, "Don't Crush the Brush," highlighted the importance of staying on designated trails to prevent damage to land resources.

“The Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association’s Region 6 team is a valuable partner in our educational outreach,” said Steven Van-Si, BLM Lakeview Outdoor Recreation Planner. “Their support helps us introduce fifth graders across Lake County to responsible public land use and spend time on their public lands. With messages like ‘Don’t Crush the Brush,’ we’re teaching the next generation the importance of protecting native vegetation and treading lightly.”

In mid-May, the BLM staff and partners delivered presentations at the Union, Paisley, North Lake, and A.D. Hay schools. The presentations helped students understand their positive role in an ecosystem by staying on designated roads and trail systems.

Following the presentations, students were invited to design original artwork illustrating the importance of responsible outdoor ethics. A total of 24 posters were entered and evaluated based on creativity, originality, and messaging.

Poster Contest Selections:

1st Place: Ceara Perry - North Lake

2nd Place: Lanie Havel - AD Hay

3rd Place: Eedric Mize - North Lake

4th Place: Cait Halbleib - AD Hay

5th Place: Evelyn Fivecoat - North Lake

The Grand Prize Recipient, Ceara Perry, received a $100 award. Second place also received $100, while 3rd place through 5th place awardees each received $50. BLM staff and partners recognized all other participants with hoodies, t-shirts, and backpacks.

Selected posters will be displayed at the BLM Lakeview District Office and visitor kisosks across various BLM recreation sites throughout Lake County during the coming year.

The Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association generously funded the contest through the proceeds generated by a fun-run it hosted at the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes over Memorial Day weekend.