Oklahoma high school juniors and seniors are invited to compete for cash prizes in the 2008 Kerr Center essay contest. The subject of this year’s contest is “The Value of Locally Grown Foods.”

Grand prize is $750; first runner-up, $500; and honorable mention will receive $250.

Deadline for entries is March 28 and winners will be announced in early May. Contest information has been sent to high schools around the state and is posted online at www.kerrcenter.com.

This year’s theme was chosen because of the rapidly growing interest in locally grown foods in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma is making great strides in expanding local food sources, with such programs as Farm to School, farmers’ markets, Tulsa’s “Buy Fresh, Buy Local” campaign, and the Oklahoma Food Cooperative.

Proponents say a more local food supply can relieve hunger, stimulate economies, improve nutrition, reduce obesity and revitalize communities.

“Agriculture is Oklahoma’s second largest industry,” said Anita Poole, contest coordinator. “Essayists are invited to explore the benefits of local food sources and compare and contrast those benefits with potential challenges.”

“Arguments may include the economic sustainability of local food purchasing, the ecological benefits of preserving family farms, and conserving fuels through reduction in transportation of product, or others,” she said.

“Social impacts, such as increasing food security and improving nutrition and health, may also be explored,” she added.

Information: http://kerrcenter.com or 647-9123.