National Natural Landmarks Photo Contest Winners Announced

One hundred and fifty-two images representing 92 different National Natural Landmarks sites across 31 states were submitted to the 8th Annual NNL Photo Contest. A National Park Service-wide vote took place in mid-August and the winners were announced today. Top honors went to Debra Miller of Highlands Ranch, Colorado for her photograph of Hanging Lake, east of Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

The three winning photos and the 10 Honorable Mentions will be featured in the 2012 NNL calendar, specially designed to commemorate the NNL Program’s 50th Anniversary. “These stunning photographs not only highlight the beauty of these spectacular places, but the longevity of the National Park Service’s relationship with partners for resource conservation,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis.

There are 591 national natural landmarks across the United States, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. NNLs are designated by the Secretary of the Interior following rigorous scientific study, and include features on private, state, municipal, and federal lands. Participation in the program is voluntary.

To view the 13 winning photographs from this year’s contest, please click here.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com