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Photographers Invited to Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve for Twelfth Annual Photo Contest
Olivenhain Municipal Water District and The Escondido Creek Conservancy invite amateur photographers of all ages to Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve for the twelfth annual amateur photography contest which begins on Earth Day, April 22, 2017.
Patrons are encouraged to take advantage of all the spectacular wildflower blooms and spring growth provided by the winter rains and warm weather in 2017 and experience the outdoors through the art of photography at one of San Diego County’s most precious natural resources. The 784-acre reserve offers 11 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails as well as picnic areas and scenic mountain viewpoints.
“This popular contest allows photographers of all skill levels to showcase their talents and the reserve’s natural beauty through the lens of resource conservation, recreation, and stewardship,” states Jerry Varty, Secretary of OMWD’s Board of Directors and Elfin Forest resident. “I look forward to seeing the stunning images captured in every corner of our picturesque reserve, which includes a portion of Escondido Creek, a variety of native plant communities, and views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel and Coronado Islands, and Laguna and San Bernardino mountain ranges. “
Winning photos will be selected from five categories—Scenic View, Water Scenery, Plants, Animals, and Youth (photographers age 15 and under). There will also be a People’s Choice Award, for which the winner will be selected in an online vote. Winners will be displayed at the reserve’s Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty beginning in January 2018. In addition, winners are eligible for prizes donated by local businesses, including a $100 cash prize donated by The Escondido Creek Conservancy.
Entries must feature the reserve as their subject or be taken within the reserve from any designated trail. Photos must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 4, 2017. The awards presentation will take place at OMWD’s November 8, 2017 Board of Directors meeting. Interested parties may visit www.olivenhain.com/photo for official contest rules and to upload contest entries.
Best in Show: Golden Sunburst Over Escondido Creek by Brian Jolliffe
