DEC Seeks Inspiring Images of Trees for Annual Poster Contest

Winner to be Featured on 2026 State Arbor Day Poster

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton today announced the launch of the annual Arbor Day Poster contest, encouraging photographers and artists of all ages to submit images that capture the power and beauty of trees. The poster is released annually by DEC's Urban and Community Forestry Program to celebrate and recognize the benefits of trees to people, nature, and the environment.

"Trees are powerful allies in building resilient communities, ecosystems, and a healthier future," said Commissioner Lefton. "As we work together towards our goal of planting 25 million trees by 2033, this poster competition is a chance for New Yorkers to share their vision of the beauty and benefits of trees and to inspire others to celebrate, plant, and protect them."

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "Trees contribute to the beautiful scenery that makes up New York's landscapes and to our agricultural story by providing us with the first crop of the season of sweet maple syrup. They also power our wood products industry, clean our air, and improve water quality. The annual Arbor Day Poster Contest is a wonderful celebration of New York's trees and their importance to the daily lives of New Yorkers and visitors alike. I encourage everyone to take part in the Arbor Day Poster Contest and help us showcase their significance."

Submissions should reflect this year's theme, "Trees for the Future," expressing through original photos or artwork the connections between people and trees, the importance of planting trees for future generations, and the role of trees in providing resilience in a changing climate. DEC will accept submissions on behalf of the New York State Arbor Day Committee through Nov. 30, 2025.

The winning image will be featured on the 2026 Arbor Day poster. The poster is distributed across the state for Arbor Day celebrations, the New York State Fair, schools, libraries, local conservation councils, and other events.

The annual Arbor Day Poster contest is sponsored by the New York State Arbor Day Committee, which includes DEC, the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the Empire State Forestry Foundation, the New York State Arborists Association, and Sylvamo North America. Entries must feature trees growing within New York State, be of acceptable image resolution, and are limited to one per person. To enter, read the complete contest rules and submit entries using the online submission form.

For more information about the contest, visit DEC's website or email [email protected].

Contact a local DEC forestry office or call 518-402-9428 to obtain the previous year's Arbor Day poster, while supplies last.