The “Experience Your Nature” essay contest will allow Coloradan fourth-graders the opportunity to be a part of the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree Project.

Each fourth-grader can take part in sending a tree from The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests to the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. by submitting a 500-word essay, focused on how the writer has spent time outdoors throughout the year, and why state forest’s are important.

“Coloradans cherish our state’s natural beauty, forests, and magnificent outdoor spaces and this is an exciting opportunity for our fourth graders to help share stories of their special and personal relationship with the vast, great outdoors,” Gov. Jared Polis said in announcing the contest.

“In this challenging time, we all look forward to seeing one of Colorado’s magnificent Engelmann Spruce on full display in our nation’s Capitol to help our country ring in the holiday season and spread joy.”

The essay contest is apart of Polis’ 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree Project, which was announced in July.

Information about the requirements of the essay can be found here.

All fourth-graders that submit an essay will receive access to the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service’s Every Kid Outdoors program, which is a resource for children and parents to discover wildlife, outdoors and resources.

The program also makes each fourth-grader eligible for for a Christmas tree cutting permit, officials said.

On Nov. 6, the chosen Christmas tree will begin its journey east to Washington D.C., and along the way it’ll stop in 10 communities that’ll host a series of outdoor winter activities, according the news release.

From there the tree will make its way to the Capitol where it will stand throughout the holiday season.

Students interested in participating in the contest should send their essays to: [email protected] by Nov. 9