Submissions are open for latest DEC photo contest
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has just announced the theme for its latest ‘Love Our New York Lands’ photo contest — “accessible recreation.”
Coinciding with the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, this month’s photo contest, which is accepting submissions through Saturday, August 31, is meant to highlight participation in camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, hiking, nature viewing, and other recreational opportunities for New Yorkers with disabilities.
“DEC is proud to support the Americans with Disabilities Act and is working every day to make more public lands accessible for visitors to enjoy and share with each other,” Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “I encourage everyone to check out the many DEC recreation features on the new Accessible Recreation Destinations Map and throughout the DEC website. Plan your next adventure or relaxing escape to nature, and send us your pictures of welcoming all ages and abilities to share the outdoors.”
The winning images will receive prizes and be featured in statewide digital and print campaigns to increase awareness of principles and guidelines that encourage safe, accessible, respectful, inclusive, and sustainable use of public lands.
The Love Our New York Lands campaign, launched in 2020 by DEC and State Parks, encourages all users of state-owned lands to recognize that these lands are shared by all, as is the responsibility to take care of them.
The contest further supports Gov. Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, which was launched earlier this month to encourage New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings.
To explore the new Accessible Recreation Destinations Map, visit: dec.ny.gov/places-to-go/accessible-recreation/destinations.
Click here to learn more about the Love Our New York Lands campaign.
Contest Information and Judging Criteria:
Prizes will be awarded to the winning photo entries. Photos will be judged on the following criteria: originality; artistic composition; technical quality; and whether the photograph showcases inclusivity in people enjoying New York’s outdoor activities safely and responsibly.
Accessible Recreation photo submissions should be emailed to [email protected] by Aug. 31, 2024, with the subject line “Accessible Rec.” The photographer’s full name, the DEC land where the image was taken (reference land name, location, and UID code listed in the Accessible Recreation Destination Map pop-up, if applicable), and Instagram/social media handle should also be included. DEC may use photos of facilities featured in a variety of publications and outreach materials, including the Accessible Recreation Destinations Map.
