Pennsylvania Artist Wins Maryland Black Bear
Stamp Contest For A Record Third Time

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ANNAPOLIS – Steve Oliver’s painting of a single adult black bear will become the official 2007 Maryland Black Bear Stamp. It was judged number one out of a contest-record 25 entries from 12 different states, including California, Maine and Florida; eight Maryland artists participated in the 11th annual contest. Mr. Oliver also won top honors in 2000 and 2003.

Oliver is fond of describing his work as borne of his passion for living things and a multitude of experiences he has enjoyed through his travels across the United States. The judging for this year’s contest took place on March 31 at the 18th Annual Patuxent Wildlife Art Show held at the Patuxent National Wildlife Visitor’s Center in Laurel.

Legislation adopted in 1996 by the Maryland General Assembly requires proceeds from the sale of the Black Bear Stamp, prints and other related products be used to compensate farmers in Maryland experiencing agricultural damage caused by black bears.

For prints of this winning entry or either of his other two winners, contact Steve Oliver by visiting his website at www.steveoliverart.com or calling at (610) 872-8122.

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April 5, 2007

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 446,000 acres of public lands and 18,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 11 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov