NEVADA CITY, Calif. June 19, 2017 – Here’s another reason to visit the Tahoe National Forest! The Forest Service, in partnership with YubaNet, is hosting its second annual photo contest during the summer months, starting June 21—the first day of summer—and ending September 30.

Photography can inspire, illuminate and teach people about their public lands. This is an exciting opportunity for visitors to document the scenery, plants, animals and recreational opportunities available on the Tahoe National Forest.

Photos must be taken on the Tahoe National Forest (does not include Lake Tahoe) and can include such subjects as:  wilderness, wildlife and plants, recreation, rivers and lakes, lookouts, and landscapes, among others. Anyone can enter the contest except for current Tahoe National Forest employees. See the Tahoe National Forest website for contest rules and information on how to submit photos.

“A camera can really capture the beauty of the Tahoe National Forest,” said Michael Woodbridge, Tahoe National Forest Public Affairs Officer. “Come enjoy your national forest and show us its beauty through your eyes.”

“The Tahoe National Forest is our backyard,” said YubaNet’s editor Pascale Fusshoeller. “Be a ‘nature journalist,’ explore the Forest and share your discoveries—good news is always welcome.”

First, second and third place winners will be announced in October. Winners will be recognized on YubaNet and the Tahoe National Forest website, social media pages, and other publications. The prize for first place is two nights in the restored, historic U.S. Forest Service Sardine Fire Lookout. Second and third place winners will be treated to a guided tour on the Rock Creek Nature Trail in the spring.

Similar to last year, Kial James, a local professional photographer, will assist the Tahoe National Forest. James’ expertise in outdoor photography and eye for great images will be a great asset during the judging and selection of the first, second and third place winners.

For more information about the contest, go to www.fs.usda.gov/tahoe.

Join the conversation by following us on Twitter at twitter.com/Tahoe_NF and Facebook at www.facebook.com/TahoeNF.