Student art contest launched to spotlight Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle

Published on April 25, 2025

LĪHU‘E – The County of Kaua‘i Office of Economic Development (OED) is excited to announce a student art contest aimed at raising awareness about the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB)—an invasive pest that threatens Kaua‘i’s agriculture, native ecosystems, and local economy.

Open to all K–12 students on Kaua‘i, the contest invites young artists to creatively express how our community can work together to stop the spread of this destructive beetle. Submissions will be accepted from April 28 to May 19, 2025. Winners will be announced on May 23, with 1st through 3rd place prizes awarded in each of the following grade categories: K–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12. Selected artwork will also be featured in future outreach materials and community events.

“This contest is an exciting opportunity for keiki and teens to learn about the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle and become champions for our island,” said Niki Kunioka-Volz, Agriculture Specialist with the Office of Economic Development. “Art is a powerful tool—it sparks curiosity, inspires action, and gives voice to the next generation. We can’t wait to see the creativity and heart our young artists bring to this important cause.”

Students may use any medium of their choice—such as drawing, painting, digital art, or collage—so long as the piece is their own original work and does not include AI-generated or copied images.

For contest guidelines and to submit your entry, visit www.KauaiForward.com/crb-awareness-art-contest/.

For questions, contact the Office of Economic Development at 808-241-4946 or email oed@kauai.gov.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, contact Niki Kunioka-Volz at 808-241-4951 or nkvolz@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

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