Children have been exploring nature and documenting their experiences with a camera or smart phone this summer in the Rio Grande Valley. The exhibit “Nature through the Eyes of Children,” showcasing one winning image from each contestant, is on display at Quinta Mazatlan throughout August.
The Valley Land Fund and Quinta Mazatlan’s RGV Youth Nature Photo Contest offers an opportunity for young people to capture their understanding of the natural heritage of the Valley through the lens of the camera.
Every child who submitted photographs was awarded by having one image featured in the traveling Photo Exhibit. Valley Land Fund Executive Director Debralee Rodriguez shared, “We know that a photograph has the power to tell a story from infinite angles. And for this reason, we’ve run the annual contest to connect children of the RGV with the many shades and colors of nature around them in hopes that we generate awareness and passion for conservation.”
More than 160 students, ages 5 to 18, participated in the free enrichment program. Students from Rio Grande City to South Padre Island submitted their top six nature images. Judges then chose one image from each child to be featured in the photo exhibit by children.
“Think of photography as an adventure that you and your child/grand child can do together, discovering the local wildlife in your area” states Colleen Hook, the executive director of Quinta Mazatlan.
Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, the Photo Contest and Awards Ceremony were free for all children. Supporters include The Valley Land Fund, City of McAllen, Quinta Mazatlan, Robert L Townsend Endowment Fund, H-E-B, Frost Bank, Magic Valley Electric Cooperative and AEP Texas.
Photo Contest Winners Are As Follows:
GRAND PRIZE
- Nathan Mowers-Great Kiskadee
DIVISION 1(5-8)
- 1st: Carmelo Lopez-Craters on Luna
- 2nd: Caleb Rodriguez-White-tailed Deer
- 3rd: Adrian Rodriguez-Waterlily
DIVISION 2 (9-13)
- 1st: Lillian Heinen-Common Sunflower
- 2nd: Noah James Rodriguez-Fall Webworm Moth
- 3rd: Moxon De Los Reyes-Old Man’s Beard
DIVISION 3 (14-18)
- 1st: Simon Fontenot-Roseate Spoonbill
- 2nd: Robert Schmidt-Western Ribbon Snake
- 3rd: Ethan Mowers-Royal Tern