2013 Bee Essay Contest

All youth between the ages of 5 & 18 are eligible to participate in this great essay contest! The 2013 topic is “Reducing the Usage of Bee-Killing Pesticides in my Community.”

Pesticides are a fact of modern life, but misuse or overuse of pesticides, or making poor choices when selecting and applying pesticides can be devastating to honey bees and other pollinators. The 4-H’ers are encouraged to learn about bee-killing pesticides being used in their communities – by homeowners, businesses, or farmers. Then, they should investigate how the impact of those pesticides on honey bees can be lessened.
 
The scope of the research is an essential judging criterion, accounting for 40% of your score. The number of sources consulted, the authority of the sources, and the variety of the sources are all evaluated.

Personal interviews with beekeepers, farmers and others familiar with the subject are valued sources of information and should be documented. Sources, which are not cited in the endnotes, should be listed in a “Resources” or “Bibliography” list.

Those interested in entering the contest need to have their essays submitted electronically by February 1st, 2013. There will be cash awards for the winners. Please send all essays to Liz Driscoll at liz_driscoll@ncsu.edu.