Photographers with the talent to recognize a great nature shot when they see it…and the skills to capture it…will compete for cash prizes in a locally judged photo contest, showcasing the beautiful and diverse Long Key Nature Center and Natural Area, one of Broward County Parks and Recreation Division’s gems located in west Davie.
The contest is being sponsored and run by the park’s friends group, called the “Friends of Long Key”, or FOLK, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization of volunteers who care about preserving the natural history of the heavily forested park while educating the community about it.
“The 2024 Long Key Photo Contest once again gives us a chance to show off the park we love and share its beauty with people who were previously unaware of one of Broward County’s hidden treasures” said Patti Gersack, the President of FOLK. “We look forward to once again being amazed by the outstanding talent of local photographers of all ages and hope even more of them will take advantage of this opportunity to show off their skills this year.”
Once a home to Tequesta and Seminole Indians, the Long Key site may be remembered by some as the home of Pioneer City and later the Kapok Tree Restaurant which was famed for its setting among giant oak trees, its Roman motif, and juicy servings of prime rib. Today, the park boasts an impressive admission-free Nature Center and a natural area encompassing well over 160 acres, making it one of Broward County’s largest. The park is located at 3501 SW 130th Avenue in Davie.
CONTEST DETAILS
The contest will provide cash awards for “Best in Show”, first, second and third place in the categories of “Scenery”, “Botanical / Plants”, “Wildlife” and “Butterflies / Moths / Insects / Arachnids”, and first, second and third place in two youth category age groups (under 13 and 13-17). All entered pictures must be taken within the Long Key grounds. Entries of up to four images require a small entry fee donation and will only be accepted at the Nature Center. More details can be found at www.friendsoflongkey.com.
“OFF THE BEATEN PATH” PHOTO WALKS
FOLK and the Long Key Nature Center are teaming up to offer “photo walks” starting at the Nature Center. Park experts and seasoned photographers will be on hand to take participants to areas of the Natural Area not normally open to the public, discuss photography techniques and tips and offer a unique opportunity to capture the shot of a lifetime, or at the very least capture a few shots that can be used as entries for the contest. See FOLK’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/FOLKDavieFL/ or www.friendsoflongkey.com for more information.
CONTEST ENTRY SUBMISSION DATES
Entries for the contest will be accepted at the Long Key Nature Center located at 3501 SW 130th Avenue in Davie (954) 357-8797 on Saturday, March 16th and 23rd, 2024 from 10:00AM – 1:00PM.
