Columbia Standard

The Richland County Stormwater Management Division (RCSMD) is seeking eager and talented voices to simplify a complex topic for residents. 

Officials are searching for artists to illustrate "Tessa’s Tale", a children’s story about a fish whose adventures teach a lesson about stormwater pollution. 

Penned by a RCSMD employee in partnership with the city of Columbia’s Water Division, the activity book also explores various scenarios involving water quality in a local waterway.

Once completed, the works is slated to include at least six original illustrations and be used as a teaching tool for schoolchildren.

“We’re excited about having another opportunity to get the community involved in our outreach programs in a way that has a wide reach,” Chenile Williams, RCSMD education program coordinator, said in a Richland County press release. "‘Tessa’s Tale’ was a joy to write and I hope it has an impact on the lives of our budding environmentalists.”

The call for artists is open and all are encouraged to apply with the individual or group tabbed for the job to be compensated.

“We all connect through stories and pictures, and this project is an imaginative and exciting way to engage young people as they learn more about how water moves through our land and communities,” Allison Terracio, County Councilmember - District 5, said in the release. “We are growing the next generation of conservationists.”

All illustrations should be geared to children ages 7 to 12, and directly draw attention to the wildlife and waterways of the South Carolina Midlands.

Applicants can apply until Oct. 22 by going to richlandcountysc.gov.