The Two Harbors High School Environmental Club expanded its annual Earth Day competition beyond students this year, inviting the community to promote broader environmental awareness. The challenge features four categories—nature photography, poetry, recycled art, and Earth Day posters—offering opportunities for participants of all artistic interests and skill levels.
The photography category invites participants to snap a shot of themselves enjoying nature or capturing an amazing nature scene. With a Cedaero pouch in the picture, the competition is sure to be in the frame. Photo entries can be sent to anya.howard@student.isd381.org.
The recycled art category challenges participants to turn trash into treasure, using only recycled materials—proof that one person’s junk is another’s masterpiece! The winner will pick up a gift certificate. Poster artists will paint a picture of Earth Day, hoping to draw a win and color their collection with new art supplies. Meanwhile, poets who craft an original piece about nature or Earth Day can take the sweet route to victory—winning cookies as their just desserts!
Students can drop off their creations in Mrs. Juenemann’s room, while community members can submit theirs at the Two Harbors Library.
Beyond organizing the Earth Day competition, the club also dives into environmental education. Members learn about aquatics, soils, forestry, wildlife, and current events. This year’s focus is ‘Roots and Resiliency: Fostering Forest Stewardship in a Canopy of Change,’ exploring climate change, engagement with Indigenous communities, and their forestry management techniques.
On May 5, teams will put their knowledge to the test at the Cloquet Forestry Center, competing in five subject areas and delivering a 10-minute presentation on the current event. Last year, the club advanced to the State Envirothon, earning an impressive 5th place out of approximately 300 teams.
The Enviro Club team, currently made up of Alex Stone, Aili Gischia, Dani Mattson, Signe Myers, and Ava Oswald-Swenson, has qualified for state for the past three years. This year, the club expanded, adding another team consisting of Anya Howard, Max Taylor, and Caroline Selvog.
“We would love to invite more students to join Enviro Club!” said Ava Oswald-Swenson in an email exchange. “It’s so much fun, and Mrs. Juenemann is a wonderful club leader!”
The Enviro Club is all about making a difference and having fun while doing it. If you’re looking to get involved and make an impact, the club is ready to welcome you!
