And the winners of our Christmas in July contest are…

All the way back in July, we invited Earth Rangers across Canada to send us their very best artwork showcasing the beauty of trees in wintertime. And wow, did you all deliver! The top twenty artists had their work displayed at the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC)’s National Forest Week reception back in September. Canadian forestry leaders and government officials voted on which artwork they liked best. How cool is that?

After all that voting, we’re so pleased to finally announce the winners of this year’s Christmas in July contest.

In first place: Earth Ranger Helly, age 11, who lives in Manitoba!

Helly will have their artwork featured on the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) holiday card this year. They also won a fantastic prize pack courtesy of FPAC and Earth Rangers.

Check out Helly’s winning artwork below, along with a few words about what inspires her as an artist and a conservationist!

Earth Ranger Helly

What inspired you to create this artwork?

Forests and Earth Rangers inspired me to create this artwork.

What’s your favourite thing to do in the wintertime?

My favorite thing to do in wintertime is skating and playing in the snow too.

Why is it so important for us to protect trees?

Trees are important to protect because trees give off oxygen that we need to breathe. Many species of wildlife depend on trees for habitat. Trees provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals.

What’s your advice for other kids who are interested in conserving trees?

My advice to kids is to plant more trees to have better oxygen.

And let’s give a very special shout-out to our runners-up!

In second place, we have Earth Ranger Revaan, age 6, from Manitoba. Fun fact: they’re Helly’s sibling!