Share your adventures in McHenry County Conservation District photo contest

This summer McHenry County Conservation District wants to see your best shot. The 3rd annual Instagram photo contest begins Tuesday, June 15, which is also Nature Photography Day. When visiting a McHenry County Conservation District Area or hiking and riding a district trail, snap some photos that depict one of four categories: Exploration, Discovery, Tranquility or Adventure.

There are endless possibilities in capturing these moments with family and friends this summer, but you only have until Aug. 19, World Photography Day, to submit your favorites.

Document your exploration. Show us how and with who you explore new and familiar natural settings. What does Exploration mean to you? Show us what you discover on district sites. Whether it be macro photos of plants and animals you're seeing for the first time or in a new way, or a photo of a habitat or geological formation that is teaching you something new about the natural world or yourself, we want to share in that discovery.

Nature has a way of calming us. Show us the tranquil sights you encounter that make you feel at peace and one with the natural world. Finally, conservation areas hold the potential for so much adventure. Whether it's biking, hiking, paddling, horseback riding or other outdoor-loving activities, adventure awaits.

Photographers first need to follow @DiscoverMCCD on Instagram; then post a photo on their Instagram account in any of four categories using the corresponding hashtag: #MCCDExploration, #MCCDDiscovery, #MCCDTranquility, or #MCCDAdventure as well as the hashtag #DiscoverMCCD. Photographers may enter up to three photos in each category. The winner in each category will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, and will have their photo featured in an upcoming issue of Landscapes Magazine and on the district's social media accounts.

For a complete set of rules visit MCCD.me/PhotoContest. To find a site, visit MCCD.me/Sites.

McHenry County Conservation District currently owns and protects 25,600 acres of open space which provides wildlife habitat preservation, educational opportunities and recreational amenities for the citizens of McHenry County to enjoy. The McHenry County Conservation District exists to preserve, restore, and manage natural areas and open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the benefits to present and future generations.