Across the seasons and across the state, Colorado provides picturesque agricultural landscapes for photographers. From families farming together, sheep amongst fall colors and an aerial view of harvested fields, winning entries in the 20th annual “Colorado…it’s Agricultural” Photography Contest showcase the spirit of Colorado agriculture.
“We received more than 110 entries featuring agriculture from every corner of the state,” said Wendy White, marketing specialist at the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “It is always exciting to see how photographers capture Colorado farms and ranches.”
The winners were selected based on relation to Colorado agriculture, creativity and technical quality. The grand-prize winner is Brian Biesemeier of Sedgwick, Colorado, with the entry entitled “Farming with Dad.” The winning photograph shows a young boy with his toy tractor in a field with his dad’s tractor in the background.
Other top finishers include Travis Harvey of Castle Rock, Colorado, first place in the crops category; Carolyn Keller of Monte Vista, Colorado, first place livestock; Dave Ritchey of Kit Carson, Colorado, first place wildlife in agriculture; and Leah Hartman of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, first place open professional.
Individuals receiving an honorable mention include Dan Harvey, Monte Vista, Colorado; Savannah Schlaufman, Manassa, Colorado; Holly Kaye, Byers, Colorado; Bill Chiles, Hooper, Colorado; Ryan Kanode, Haxtun, Colorado; Matthew Lahn, Fountain, Colorado; and Karen Mack, Craig, Colorado.
Started in 1998, the “Colorado…It’s Agricultural” Photography Contest is sponsored by the AgInsights Committee, Colorado Department of Agriculture and Northeastern Junior College. Winning photographs will be displayed in the Beede-Hamil Agriculture Building at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado. They are also available online at www.coloradoagriculture.com.
