Each year the N.J. Department of Agriculture, the state Association of Conservation Districts and the Ocean County Soil Conservation District sponsor a poster contest to help promote a better understanding of the connection between humans and natural resources, engaging students in grades two to 12 in a fun and creative way. Youngsters in public and private schools within Ocean County, as well as those who are home-schooled, are encouraged to enter.

The theme of the 2023 contest is “One Water.” As the sponsors explain, “The water on earth is one of our most precious…