The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) launched its 2012 Rain Barrel Design Competition to educate students on storm water management and to highlight the positive impact of green initiatives. The competition, now in its third year, offers eligible students the chance to win a rain barrel based on creative artwork submitted through participating schools across the state.

"The popularity of the rain barrel design competition has soared, and with its continuation, has engaged students statewide to better understand how vital sustainability practices are for the environment, our communities and residents' overall quality of life," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. "We are proud to offer the design competition again this year, and encourage all interested students to participate and display their artistic abilities."

During the current fall semester, IDOT is teaming with the Illinois Correction Industries to make the Rain Barrel Design Competition possible for the third consecutive year. Students ranging from 3rd to 12th grades will have the opportunity to submit an artistic design that could be painted onto a rainbarrel. Optimal designs depict impressions of nature, Earth Day, or reflect IDOT's vision of sustainability. In November, 50 designs will be selected as winners and those schools will each receive a rain barrel.

Each school is allowed one submission in each age group and it must be made through the schools' principal or art teacher. The age group divisions are 3rd to 5th grade, 6th to 8th grade and 9th to 12th grade.

Schools will receive information and rules regarding the event this week. Designs must be submitted to IDOT by Oct. 29, 2012. Winners will be announced in early November.

For additional information, please contact Steve Massey, sustainable practices manager of IDOT, at (815) 434-8414 or Steve.Massey@illinois.gov.