Illinois American Water is inviting 4th grade classrooms within the company’s service area to participate in an Earth Day art contest. The purpose of the contest is to raise awareness about the value of water and assist teachers in educating about water conservation.

“A large part of our environmental effort focuses on education and awareness so our customers and their families can help protect and conserve water for future generations,” said Karla Olson Teasley, president of Illinois American Water.

Students are asked to draw a picture and write one sentence that describes why it is important to conserve and/or protect water. Teachers can find instructions and materials online at www.illinoisamwater.com, in the “Learning Center” area of the site. All completed entries should be sent to Karen Cotton, at 123 S.W. Washington
Street, Peoria, Illinois 61602, by March 7, 2011. The winner(s) will be selected by Illinois American Water’s environmental compliance and water quality team.

The winning class(es) will receive a pizza party along with a visit from Illinois American Water’s water quality team in April to celebrate Earth Day. The winning drawing(s) will also be featured in a future bill insert sent to customers. Questions should be directed to Karen Cotton via e-mail at karen.cotton@amwater.com or by telephone at 309-566-4126.