NEDERLAND — Nederland is showing its support for its police officers and asking the public to join in with Nederland Backs the Blue on Aug. 24.

The push to honor the men and women in blue is sponsored by the City of Nederland, Nederland Chamber of Commerce and Nederland Economic Development Corporation.

Residents are encouraged to wear blue to work or school and decorate a paw print and display it in your home or business. Share and tag your blue and paw print photos online with #NederlandBacksTheBlue

Prizes will be awarded for the best decorated paw prints.

Chris Duque, city manager, said the idea came from talks with him and leaders with the chamber of commerce and the parks and recreation department.

“We wanted to show our appreciation for our law enforcement officers,” Duque said. “In speaking with the police chief (Darrell Bush), there’s been so much support, so many people, groups, organizations and businesses who have shown their appreciation for what the men and women of the police department do. I know they’ll appreciate this.”

Paw print templates may be picked up at city hall, chamber of commerce or EDC office or can be printed from the city’s Facebook page.

Diana LaBorde, president of the Nederland Chamber of Commerce, said in light of recent events this is a way to let the police officers know the city backs them all the way.

“We want to honor them and for them to know we appreciate them year-round,” LaBorde said.

A panel of citizens will be judges in the contest and prizes will be given.

More details will be released soon, she added.