Friday, March 29th, 2024 Church Directory
THE FIRST PLACE PRIZE went to Emily Dehmer of St. Michael for her beautifully-composed photo of two tree trunks. (Submitted Photo).

Youth photographers recognized during virtual award ceremony

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, in partnership with the Friends of Sherburne and the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge Photography Club, hosted its 6th Annual Youth Photography Contest this year. 

The contest saw a great turnout, with 14 out of 19 entries being first time participants. All submitted photos captured beautiful and unique perspectives of the Refuge and can be viewed on the Friends of Sherburne Facebook page (facebook.com/sherburnerefugefans/).

The photos showcased Sherburne’s scenery and wildlife and had to be taken on the Refuge. Additionally, all photos were taken during daylight hours and in areas open to the public. 

On Nov. 18, the winners and all participants were recognized for their outstanding work during a virtual awards ceremony, with first through third place awarded as well as three honorable mentions. 

The first place winner was Emily Dehmer of St. Michael for her brilliant image gazing up two lichen coated tree trunks into their canopy of golden leaves complimented by a turquoise sky. Second and third place were awarded to Elliott Sorenson  of Otsego, and Maria Gillson of Princeton. Honorable mentions were awarded to Peter Dehmer, Logan Hodges and Trischelle Johnson. 

The Refuge would like to thank all the young photographers for their participation and for sharing their creative and inspiring images with them.

It’s not too early to start thinking about next year’s contest! Starting in January, entry forms for the 7th Annual Youth Photography Contest will be available on the Refuge website on the “Just for Kids” page (www.fws.gov/refuge/Sherburne). The Refuge rarely sees winter photos submitted, so getting out to the Refuge in the upcoming months could give you an advantage! 

All photos and entry forms must be submitted or postmarked by Oct. 8, 2021 to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, 17076 293rd Ave NW, Zimmerman, MN, 55398.

For questions or more information, please contact Alaina Larkin at Alaina_Larkin@fws.gov or 763-260-3078.