Local photographers fare well in contest

Two Grand Junction photographers are among the top finishers in an annual contest showcasing the Colorado agriculture industry.

Elena Dravez placed first in the agritourism category of the competition with her entry titled “Come Help Us at the Ranch, Dude!” Laurie Purcell was among the photographers receiving honorable mentions. Craig Hammes of Delta also received an honorable mention.

“Photographers from across the state and the nation submitted entries showcasing Colorado agriculture,” said Wendy White, a marketing specialist with the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “It is always so exciting to see how photographers capture the diversity of agriculture in Colorado.”

The department, AgInsights Committee and Northeastern Junior College sponsor the “Colorado … It’s Agricultural” photography contest. Winning photos will be displayed at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling as well as posted online at www.coloradoagriculture.com.

The winning photos were selected from among more than 100 entries. Samantha Kujala of Burns won the grand prize for her photograph depicting a rancher checking on cattle in Northwestern Colorado.

Entries for the 2013 contest will be accepted through Dec. 31 in five categories: agritourism, crops, livestock and people as well as an open category for professional photographers.