Photographers with the talent to recognize a great nature shot will compete for cash prizes. They must have the skills to capture it. This contest is locally judged and showcases the beautiful and diverse Long Key Nature Center and Natural Area. This area is one of Broward County Parks and Recreation Division’s gems, located in West Davie.
The contest is sponsored and run by the park’s friends group, the “Friends of Long Key” (FOLK). This is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization of volunteers. They care about preserving the natural history of the heavily forested park. They also educate the community about it.
“The 2025 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 John Haeflinger, 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 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 guide participants to areas of the Natural Area not normally open to the public. They will discuss photography techniques and tips. There is 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/, Instagram page https://www.instagram.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 15th, and 29th, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.