News Release

Only three weeks remain for Missourians to enter their best shots in the Missouri Department of Agriculture's 4th Focus on Missouri Agriculture Photo Contest. Amateur photographers across the state are encouraged to submit their best images of a beautiful Missouri farm, of a farm tractor that has been in the family for years and the fun and excitement of a child experiencing agritourism, by July 1.

"This contest is an excellent way for Missourians to share their favorite moments with others who share a love for agriculture and those that want to learn more about life on the farm," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "Participating in this contest is a great way to capture various stories about Missouri agriculture and I look forward to seeing the outstanding work of Missouri farm families and our rural communities come through in every photo."

Through photography, Missourians of all ages are capturing and sharing the unique stories and many facets of agriculture. This year's entries are posted online at Flickr.com/MoAgriculture. The contest winners will be announced at the 2013 Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, Aug. 8-18.The winning images will be displayed in the Agriculture Building throughout the State Fair.

Participants may enter up to three images in each of the five photo categories. Photo categories including: The Beauty of the Farm, Faces of the Farm, The Farming Life, The Pride of the Farm and Children's Barnyard. The Children's Barnyard is a special category for photographers ages 12 and under. Entries will be judged on visual impact, creativity, memorable content and image quality.

Thanks to the Missouri Department of Agriculture's AgriMissouri program, there are several big prizes and many chances to win. Winners in each of the four categories will receive a $100 AgriMissouri gift basket. The winner of the Children's Barnyard category will receive a special gift basket filled with $100-worth of child-friendly items from AgriMissouri. An AgriMissouri gift basket valued at $250 will be award to the Best of Show.

Photo entries may be submitted by emailing them to PhotoContest@mda.mo.gov. For a complete list of rules and guidelines, visit mda.mo.gov/focus.

More information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs is available online at mda.mo.gov.