Winners announced in 2023-2024 Picture Your Watershed photo contest

The Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed, boasting over 60 lakes and streams, stands as a testament to some of the most breathtaking scenery in our region. The Watershed Foundation’s 12th annual photo contest, “Picture Your Watershed,” sought to encapsulate this beauty through the lenses of local photographers.

Jennifer Zartman Romano, communications coordinator for The Watershed Foundation, emphasized the profound beauty witnessed by residents in the area’s aquatic landscapes. “In our daily lives, we often overlook the fleeting moments of beauty found in our local waters. Through our photo contest, we’re privileged to glimpse the extraordinary moments that make our community truly exceptional.”

Open to entries from the Upper Tippecanoe River watershed and surrounding lands, the competition spanned from Crooked Lake in Whitley County to portions of Noble and Kosciusko Counties, including Warsaw. Submissions were accepted until December 31, followed by the commencement of open voting for the coveted “People’s Choice” award. Additionally, a panel of judges from TWF selected category winners.

This year’s winners include:

People’s Choice: Tom Zahm for “Rosey Morning” at Loon Lake

Wet n’ Wildlife Award: Stephanie Goss for “Sandhill Crane” at Big Lake

Pollution Solutions Award: John O’Neill for “Chapman Lake”

Nature’s Studio Award: Julie Sutton for “Moon Setting, Crispy Morning” at Pisgah Marsh

Lovin’ Our Lakes Award: Cathy Davis for “Lake Love” at Loon Lake

Memories of the Lakes Award: James Ellis & Linda Drieman for “Fun in the 50s” at Black’s Landing

“We extend our gratitude to all the photographers, both amateur and professional, who participated this year,” expressed Romano. “Their remarkable images not only showcase the splendor of our watershed, but also underscore the vital importance of TWF’s efforts in safeguarding the quality of our local lakes and streams.”

TWF will feature the winning photographs in an exhibit this spring at the North Webster Community Center where TWF’s office is located. Enlarged canvases will be made and when the exhibit ends, the winners will receive their winning entry. More information will be provided about the exhibit soon.