The Gillette Nature Association announced today the winners of its 2010 Winter Photo Contest. First prize was awarded to Richard Jackus of Muskegon for his colorful sunset photo taken of Lake Michigan and ice sculptures on the shoreline. Second place was awarded to Barb Lowry of Muskegon for her black and white photo of a tree covered sand dune at Pere Marquette Park. Third place was awarded to Dawn Doll of Whitmore Lake for her crisp, white winter photo taken in a park in southeastern Michigan. The theme for the winter contest was Michigan landscapes. We had 79 entries which was more than GNA has ever received for a photo contest. All entries are now on display in the Visitor Center’s upper lobby. The photos will be on display until February 27.

The photos were judged by an independent panel of volunteers knowledgeable of photography technique and composition. The Gillette Nature Association extends a big thank you to all the people who made the contest possible, especially our volunteers and sponsors. First prize was $100, second prize was a $50 gift card to Meijer and third prize was a $25 gift card to Meijer. The gift cards were graciously provided by the Norton Shores Meijer store.

The next photo contest is scheduled for early summer. The theme is fungi and lichens. This is the first time we have explored this theme in a photo contest.  Photos do not have to include both fungi and lichens, but should include one or the other. The contest deadline is June 12 at noon. No photos will be accepted after that date and time. The photos will be displayed on or after June 19. Please contact the Visitor Center for official rules. Note that any photos that do not meet these official guidelines will not be accepted. Photos have to be dropped off at the Visitor Center during its open hours. Photos will not be accepted at the park office. Photos will be accepted by mail if the entry fee is enclosed and the photo complies with the official rules.