ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting entries for the 5th Annual Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest. Sponsored by Ritz Camera Centers, Boater’s World Marine Centers, Maryland Public Television and DNR, the contest invites student, amateur and professional photographers to submit photos of Maryland’s diverse natural resources now through September 5, 2008.

“Our annual photo contest offers photographers of all skill levels the opportunity to share their appreciation of our state’s exceptional natural resources, and the people who enjoy them,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. ”Each year the exciting images we receive celebrate the breadth and diversity of our exceptional landscapes, waterways and the people who enjoy them.”

Last year, Chuck Prahl of Cambridge topped nearly 400 other photographers with his winning image entitled “Working the Trotline,” a photograph of a fishing boat on the Choptank River in Cambridge. Second place went to Sid Keiser of Cockeysville, for his tranquil shot of the boat Miss Jennifer, “Water Color.” Third place went to Karen Messick of Baltimore, for her close-up, “Spiderwort,” of the native flower.

Photographers of all ages can win up to $1,200 in prizes and a chance to have their outdoor images published in print and online. Winning entries will be featured in the winter issue of The Maryland Natural Resource magazine as well as the 2009 DNR calendar.

Photos entered into the 2008 contest will be judged within 5 categories: Birds, including waterfowl; mammals, reptiles and amphibians; invertebrates (bugs, bugs and more bugs); landscape scenes; plants; and outdoor recreation illustrating human interaction with our natural world.

All qualifying photographs must be taken in Maryland. Photographers may submit up to three entries for a $10 entry fee. Photos cannot be more than two years old or previously published. Non-residents may participate as long as the photos were taken in Maryland. Winners will be announced online October 16.

Official rules and contest entry forms are available online at www.dnr.maryland.gov/photocontest/.