NEW YORK STATE - New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton recently announced the launch of DEC’s annual Arbor Day Poster contest, encouraging photographers and artists of all ages to submit images that capture the power and beauty of trees.

The winning 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. 

“Arbor Day provides an ideal opportunity to promote the planting of trees to benefit our communities and make strides toward our goal of 25 million trees by 2033,” said Commissioner Lefton. “Through this poster contest, New Yorkers are encouraged to share inspiring photography and artwork that highlight the beauty and importance of trees and how they enhance our communities.”

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “The Arbor Day Poster contest celebrates the importance of trees and highlights their impact on our lives. Trees contribute to beautiful scenery, clean air and water, and forest products that benefit our economy. I encourage New Yorkers to take part in the poster competition to demonstrate the benefits trees have on our communities.”

Submissions should reflect this year’s theme, “Trees for Vibrant Communities,” expressing the importance of trees in building resilient, healthy, and livable communities, through original photos or artwork. DEC will accept submissions on behalf of the New York State Arbor Day Committee through November 10, 2026.

The winning image will be featured on the 2027 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, Arbor Day, and DEC forestry programs, including Governor Hochul’s 25 Million Trees by 2033 initiative, visit DEC's website or email arborday@dec.ny.gov.

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

- Information from the DEC