The annual Youth Wildlife Art Contest concluded during the Harney County Migratory Bird Festival, with public voting helping determine this year’s winners. The contest showcased the creativity of local youth and celebrated the beauty of birds and wildlife through student artwork displayed throughout the festival.

 

Winners were recognized in five grade divisions. In Kindergarten through 1st Grade, first place went to Waylon Branstetter, followed by Casper Branstetter in second place and Henry Cronin in third. In the 2nd through 3rd Grade division, Adelyn Krabill earned first place, Noah Sullivan took second, and Joel Svejcar placed third. In the 4th through 6th Grade group, June Branstetter placed first, David Sullivan took second, and Alisa Baker placed third.

 

Among students in 7th through 9th Grade, Baileigh Nisbet earned first place, Madilyn Fisher took second, and Eden Ray and Christine Travis tied for third. In the 10th through 12th Grade division, first place went to Azul Romero Valdez, second place to Lyra Lu, and third place to Charley Bertrand.

 

The contest, part of the annual Migratory Bird Festival celebration, offers young artists an opportunity to share their work with the community while highlighting the importance of wildlife and habitat in Harney County. Festival visitors cast their votes after viewing the artwork on display throughout the weekend. Winners will receive Shop Harney Gift Cards sponsored by the Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

 

Thanks are owed to the parents, guardians, and art teachers or mentors who encourage youth to participate. Additional appreciation to the Harney County Chamber of Commerce for accepting the contest submissions. All artwork is now available for pick-up at the Chamber office. 

1^st place – Waylon Branstetter

2^nd place – Casper Branstetter 

3^rd place – Henry Cronin

Honorable Mention – Cade Ketscher (Kindergarten)

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1^st place – Adelyn Krabill

2^nd place – Noah Sullivan

3^rd place – Joel Svejcar

Honorable Mention – Karma Glick (3rd Grade)

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1^st place – June Branstetter (attached)

2^nd place – David Sullivan

3^rd place – Alisa Baker

Honorable Mention – Alice Netherwood (5th Grade)

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1^st place – Baileigh Nisbet (attached)

2^nd place – Madilyn Fisher

3^rd place – Eden Ray & Christine Travis

Honorable Mention – AJ Butikofer (8th Grade)

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