Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest is Underway

2013 Photo Contest Submission: Fox Siblings by Susan Cardaro

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is accepting entries for its annual photo contest through Aug. 31, 2016. Enter now—online or by mail—for the chance to win cash, park passports and other terrific prizes!

Photographers of all skill levels may enter images featuring birds, insects, flora, outdoor recreation, nature in action, scenic landscapes, and/or wildlife. New this year, judges will choose first, second and third place winners by season. There will also be one “Fan Favorite” selected by popular vote on Facebook.

“Whether a novice or seasoned pro, I encourage all photographers to take advantage of the natural beauty of our state,” Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “From the shimmering waters of the Chesapeake, to the sandy white dunes of Assateague Island, to the vast, sweeping mountains of the Appalachia, Maryland’s natural beauty is all around us. There’s no better time than now to get outside and capture it.”

Winning entries will be posted online and featured in an issue of the Maryland Natural Resource magazine as well as the 2017 calendar.

The contest is open to residents and visitors alike, but all qualifying photos must be taken in Maryland. Photographers may submit up to three entries for a $10 entry fee and additional entries (no limit) for $3 each. Photos may not be more than two years old or previously published.

Winners will be notified in the fall before the announcement is made on our website, newsroom and social media outlets.

The best overall photo will win the grand prize of $500, a 2017 Maryland State Park and Trail Passport, a five-year magazine subscription and five copies of the 2017 calendar. First, second and third place winners will also receive prizes. Click here for official rules, entry forms and prize details.