Cook County Forest Preserves Hosts Photo Contest

The following release was provided by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County:

"The Forest Preserve District of Cook County is launching its first ever public photo contest. The winning photographs will be featured in the 2013 Forest Preserve District Wall Calendar, along with photos from District staff.

Amateur and professional photographers alike are invited to submit their photos of forest preserve landscape, flora, fauna, wildlife and recreation through the District’s Flickr page from August 30, 2012 through September 10, 2012.

The District will narrow the field, and the public will vote on the top winners. Voting will take place on the Forest Preserve District’s Facebook page from September 17, 2012 through September 28, 2012.

In addition to being featured in the District’s 2013 calendar, the top vote-getters will also receive a “Get Out and Enjoy the Forest Preserves” prize package, including free passes to the Brookfield Zoo, a picnic permit fee waiver, passes to the Forest Preserve District aquatics center of their choice, a voucher for a family day of cross-country skiing at the Sagawau Environmental Learning Center and a naturalist-led guided tour of the Preserve of their choice.

For more information on the photo contest, including the official rules, visitwww.fpdcc.com/photocontest

About the Forest Preserve District of Cook County
Established in 1914, the Forest Preserve District of Cook County is the oldest and largest forest preserve system in the nation, maintaining more than 68,000 acres of open land for the education, pleasure and recreation of the public. The District strives to protect and restore the county's diverse ecosystems, so all our unique native plants and animals can live and thrive. Each year, more than 40 million people use these lands and facilities to enjoy or study nature, bicycle, hike, fish, cross-country ski, picnic, golf, canoe, or simply relax in a large preserve that leaves urban life behind. For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, visit www.fpdcc.com."