WASHINGTON — Rushing waterfalls, misty lakes and resting deer are just a few of the incredible photos captured by the winners of last year’s annual photo contest held by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Now, it could be your turn to win.

Photographers, professional or amateur, are welcome to submit photos highlighting Maryland’s natural beauty to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources online or by mail through Aug. 31, 2018. Entries can include images featuring birds, fauna, flora, insects, natural phenomena, outdoor recreation, scenic landscapes, weather or wildlife.

According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, judges will select the top three winners from each season, then select a grand prize winner from those.

Winning photos will be posted online, featured in an issue of the Maryland Natural Resource magazine and placed in a 2019 wall calendar. The grand prize winner will be awarded $500, a one-year Maryland State Park and Trail Passport and other prizes.

Photographers may submit up to three entries for $10 with additional unlimited entries at $3 each. All photos must be original and unpublished to be considered.

Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said the contest is a great way to get people involved with the outdoors and share their experiences.

“Every year I’m astounded by these new images of Maryland’s natural wonders,” Belton said.

See more prize-winning photos on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Flickr page.[custom_gallery]