In honor of Earth Day, the NJDEP Division of Watershed Management is sponsoring the New Jersey Water Photography Contest, open to all New Jersey students grades 9 - 12.

For this year's contest, students are being asked to photograph a scene that reflects a quote by well-known poet Henry David Thoreau, "A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is the earth's eye - looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature." Students must also compose an essay of 100 words or less describing how their photos reflect the quote. Through this contest, the NJDEP expects to raise awareness about how waterways are affected by their watersheds.

Submissions are due by March 4. The judging committee will evaluate the students' interpretation of the quote, creativity, overall composition and photographic quality. All photos must have been taken in New Jersey and the location will have to be identified. For rules and to apply, click on the Registration Form link below.

Highlights

• The winner will have his or her photo published on the NJDEP commemorative poster celebrating Earth Day, which will be distributed throughout New Jersey.



• The winner will also receive a $200 U.S. Savings Bond and a complimentary Passport to New Jersey State Parks.



• A second place winner will receive a $100 U.S. Savings Bond, and a third place winner will receive a $50 U.S. Savings Bond.



• In addition, all three winners will have their photos published in NJDEP's Watershed Focus newsletter.

Target Audience(s)
New Jersey students grades 9 through 12

Additional Information
Division of Watershed Management
NJDEP Box 418
Trenton, NJ 08625
Eileen P. Thornton
Phone: 609-633-0634
E-mail: eileen.thornton@dep.state.nj.us

Registration Form (pdf)