January–February 2024

From the Editor

Last Call for the MN Fish Art Contest!

As someone who can barely draw a straight line, I’m in awe of visual artists, including the gifted illustrators who contribute to this magazine. I’m equally impressed by amateurs, like the talented kids who enter the Minnesota Fish Art Contest each year. Hosted by Minnesota Conservation Volunteer in partnership with the nonprofit Wildlife Forever, the competition teaches K-12 students about aquatic conservation by inviting them to research a fish of their choice, then submit a drawing of their finned friend to be judged by a panel of experts. Previous panelists have included media personality Chance York and illustrator Bill Reynolds.

Last year, nearly 200 Minnesota students entered the contest, competing for 12 places divided between four age categories. This year, we hope to up that number to 300 entrants. Help us hit our goal by encouraging students in your life to try their hand at the competition, which closes for entries on February 28. Visit Fish Art Contest for all the details.

The Minnesota Fish Art Contest is part of MCV’s broader commitment to educate the state’s youth about the natural world. Another key component of the magazine’s education mission is its Young Naturalists program, comprising stories and study guides geared toward kids and their teachers. And MCV is sent to every public school and library in the state, ensuring that all kids have free access to this great resource.

Support our youth education efforts by donating to the magazine today. Your gift will help fund the Minnesota Fish Art contest as well as our Young Naturalists program and school/library copies. Thank you for reading and funding MCV. Happy New Year!

Chris Clayton, editor in chief