Show off your favourite local conservation area in Ontario-wide contest
(Lindsay, May 19, 2009) People across Ontario are being encouraged to show off their talents as well as their favourite conservation area. Kawartha Conservation is asking people to grab their cameras and take some pictures for Conservation Ontario's 2009 Ontario Conservation Areas Photo Contest.
"This contest has two purposes. First, it will get people out exploring their local conservation areas. Second, it's a way to find images that showcase Ontario's natural spaces," says Don Pearson, General Manager of Conservation Ontario, the main sponsor behind the contest. "There are over 260 conservation areas across Ontario that offer a variety of recreational opportunities and special events all year round. Because conservation areas are close to towns and cities, they are accessible outdoor destinations and play an important role in the health and well-being of Ontario residents."
Locally, Kawartha Conservation has 4 conservation areas open free to the public. These include Ken Reid Conservation Area (north of Lindsay), Windy Ridge Conservation Area (south of Omemee), Pigeon River Headwaters Conservation Area (east of Bethany) and the Fleetwood Creek Natural Area (south of Bethany). See www.kawarthaconservation.com for more info and maps.
"Each of these areas protects sensitive habitats and important natural features that help maintain and protect our water resources," says Jessie James, Conservation Areas Coordinator for Kawartha Conservation, "and they're spectacular places to spend a day with family, friends or on your own--for free!"
Whether it's a close-up of a native flower, a view of nesting Osprey, an abstract of snow shoe trails in the forest, or pictures of a family hiking across winding trails, the Ontario Conservation Areas Photo Contest is looking for your best photograph. The most important thing is that the image be taken at a Conservation Area. The contest is open to all ages and there are no categories, but judges will be looking for outstanding images that showcase the best of what Ontario's Conservation Areas have to offer.
The Ontario Conservation Areas Photo Contest runs until January 31, 2010 and offers prize packages totalling more than $1500. First prize is a Canon Rebel XSI Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm IS Lens and 55-200mm Zoom Lens.
"It might seem like a long wait to find out if you are one of the winners, but we want people to have a chance to send in pictures from different seasons, to reflect the range of activities and special events that we offer," Pearson says.
For more information on the prizes, rules, regulations and how to submit your photograph, go to www.ontarioconservationareas.ca.
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Media contact:
Brent Kulba, Communications Specialist, Kawartha Conservation, 705.328.2271 ext. 220, (cell) 705.344.0149, bkulba@kawarthaconservation.com
Kawartha Conservation is a watershed based, non-profit environmental organization that provides conservation, restoration and responsible management of water, land and natural habitats through programs and services that balance human, environmental and economic needs. It is governed by the six municipalities that overlap the natural boundaries of the Kawartha Conservation watershed, which include the City of Kawartha Lakes; Township of Scugog; Township of Brock; Municipality of Clarington; Township of Galway-Cavendish & Harvey; and Township of Cavan Monaghan. www.kawarthaconservation.com