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At its November 13 meeting, Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors recognized amateur photographers for their winning images captured in the fourteenth annual Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve photo contest.

“I am impressed with the quality of images and talent of Reserve visitors,” said OMWD Board Secretary Bob Kephart. “This year’s winning images put together a strong case for just how important it is to preserve open space for native habitat.”

Contest entries help to promote the Reserve and educate the public on the importance of wildlife and habitat protection. The 2019 contest generated 84 entries in five categories—Scenic View, Water Scenery, Plants, Animals, and Youth (under 15 years of age). The public also selected a People’s Choice Award winner by voting for their favorite of 10 entries posted on the Reserve’s Facebook page. This year’s winners include:

• “Paint Brushes” by Francesca Hummler – Best in Show
• “Misty Morning Over Lake Hodges” by Jeff Brock – Scenic View
• “Behind the Grass” by Daniel Humphrey – Water Scenery
• “Shine Bright” by Maria Ana Karina Lara – Plants
• “Western Fence Lizard” by Karen Wood – Animals
• “New World” by Stella Klins – Youth
• “Red Jumping Spiderman” by Sabine Kurz-Sherman – People’s Choice

Best-in-Show winner Francesca Hummler explained to the board, “I fell in love with photography in high school as a darkroom assistant. I particularly enjoy macro photography, a style which I found suited the color and repetition of the plant in my photograph well.”

Prizes included tickets donated by San Diego Zoo, a 24” x 36” canvas print donated by PC Photo & Imaging, outdoor equipment donated by REI, and a $100 cash prize donated by contest partner Escondido Creek Conservancy.

2019 winning photographs will be on display from January 1 to April 30, 2020, at the Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty located in the Reserve’s staging area.

OMWD Recognized Best-in-Show Winner Francesca Hummler