Dearborn, MI - This spring, Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) would like to host students from the 15th District on May 29, 2009, to do some hands-on learning about conservation and to tour the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.  To accommodate this, Congressman Dingell is conducting an essay contest in which the winning class will receive a small grant to cover transportation to the Refuge’s Education Shelter in Humbug Marsh in Gibraltar on that Friday.

“Some of my fondest memories from when I was a schoolboy were the times I spent outdoors with my Pop hunting or hiking.  Today’s youth do not realize how drastically affected our land and its ecosystems are by human activity and building.  It is my hope that this trip to the Refuge will serve as a reminder of what our land once was, and reinforce the message that we must protect the Earth and its wildlife for the generations to come.  The Refuge is one of my favorite places in the 15th District and I look forward to sharing this experience with my young constituents.”

Congressman Dingell is a lifetime conservationist who works diligently to preserve the land and wildlife we currently enjoy so future generations have the same privilege and opportunity.  One of his greatest accomplishments has been the establishment of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.  The Refuge is one of the only urban refuges in the country, and it is the only one that spans an international border. 
 
Eligiblity is limited to sixth, seventh and eighth grade science classes at 15th District schools.  Principals have been sent the following guidance to give to their students:
 
“Please prepare an essay of 500 words or less explaining why conservation and the environment is so important to both you and your community.  Also, please describe what role you believe you and your fellow classmates should play in protecting our Earth for future generations.”

Once completed, schools can send essays to Emily Thompson in Congressman Dingell’s Dearborn office at emily.thompson@mail.house.gov or fax them to her at (313) 278-3914.  Essays are due May 18th by close of business.  One science class from each Monroe, Wayne, and Washtenaw County will be chosen on May 20th.  Our office will be back in touch with all contributing classes shortly afterward with the results.

If you should have any questions about the contest or the event, please call Congressman Dingell’s Dearborn office at (313) 278-2936.