White Bear Lake, MN – Wildlife Forever is pleased to announce a continued partnership with the National Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP) and Yamaha Righwaters™ for the 2024-25 Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest. This collaboration underscores the critical need for youth to learn about fish and aquatic conservation through the sponsored Fish Habitat Writing Award and the Western Native Trout Award offered through the Western Native Trout Initiative (WNTI).

“If we don’t teach the next generation about conservation, they will not be able to enjoy the beautiful marine environments we experience today,” said Joshua Grier, Sustainability Manager, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “By working with organizations such as Wildlife Forever, Yamaha Rightwaters can play a small role in the preservation of our natural resources and hopefully ignite a passion for sustainability among youth.”

The award categories provide a unique opportunity for students to engage in conservation through art and writing, emphasizing the importance fish habitats and native species in the United States.

Fish Habitat Writing Award
Created with NFHP, this award encourages young writers to creatively express the importance of protecting aquatic habitats. Students respond to the question, “Why is it important to protect our lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastlines?” Top entries will be recognized for raising awareness about aquatic ecosystem conservation.

Western Native Trout Award
In collaboration with WNTI, this award celebrates the diversity of native trout species in the western U.S. Contestants depict a native trout or char species, highlighting the importance of conserving these iconic species.

“We’re excited to continue this valuable partnership with the National Fish Habitat Partnership and the Western Native Trout Initiative,” said Veronica Mangio, Marketing and Education Manager of Wildlife Forever. “Support for these awards allows students to engage in conservation and deepen their understanding of aquatic habitats.”

“NFHP is proud to foster conservation education through art,” said Ryan Roberts, NFHP Communications Coordinator. “We look forward to continuing this collaboration and inspiring youth to protect our aquatic ecosystems.”

Recognition and Prizes
The top 12 winners of both the Fish Habitat Writing and Western Native Trout Awards will be recognized for their dedication to conservation. The 2024 Fish Art Contest is open to youth worldwide, with entries for these awards due by February 28, 2024. For entry details, visit www.FishArt.org.

About the National Fish Habitat Partnership
The National Fish Habitat Partnership protects, restores, and enhances fish and aquatic communities, fostering partnerships to conserve fish habitats and improve Americans’ quality of life. Learn more at www.fishhabitat.org.

About the Western Native Trout Initiative
The Western Native Trout Initiative (WNTI) works across 12 western states to conserve 21 native trout and char species, emblematic of the American West. WNTI is a public-private partnership within NFHP, coordinated by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

About Yamaha Rightwaters
Yamaha Rightwaters is Yamaha’s sustainability initiative focused on habitat restoration, invasive species reduction, and water quality improvement, promoting conservation for healthier aquatic environments. Through collaborations like the Fish Art Contest, Yamaha Rightwaters continues to support initiatives that raise awareness of habitat preservation.

About Wildlife Forever
Wildlife Forever, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is dedicated to conserving America’s outdoor heritage through education and habitat restoration. With 96% of donations going directly to conservation, Wildlife Forever promotes impactful programs like the Art of Conservation® Fish Art Contest™, Songbird Art Contest™, Clean Drain Dry Initiative™, and Prairie City USA®. Learn more at www.WildlifeForever.org.