Annual agriculture photo contest goes digital

From cattle grazing in mountain meadows to wheat fields gently blowing in the breeze, Colorado agriculture offers beautiful backdrops for photographers. The 17th annual “Colorado…it’s AgriCultural” photography contest is seeking entries as a way to celebrate the state’s agricultural heritage. For the first time, this year’s contest will only accept digital entries.

“This contest is a great way to celebrate the diversity of Colorado agriculture,” said Commissioner of Agriculture John Salazar. “I enjoy seeing the wonderful entries every year.”

Entries must be submitted to the Colorado Department of Agriculture via e-mail with an official entry form by Dec. 31. All photographs must have been taken in the 2014 calendar year and must relate to Colorado agriculture in some way. Prizes will be awarded in five subject areas: agritourism, crops, livestock, people and open professional. Amateur and professional photographers are encouraged to enter, however, professionals may only enter agriculture-related photographs in the “open professional” category.

Judging will be based on theme, creativity and technical quality. The photographer whose picture best depicts the “spirit” of Colorado agriculture will receive $150, and category winners will receive a “Colorado…it’s AgriCultural” prize pack. All winning photographs will be displayed in the Beede-Hamil Agriculture Building at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, and will be showcased at www.coloradoagriculture.com.

Visit www.coloradoagriculture.com/aginsights or call 303-869-9174 for complete contest rules and an entry form. The contest is sponsored by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, the AgInsights Committee and Northeastern Junior College.