Refuge Headwaters Photo Winner

The public voted for the Friends of the Refuge Headwaters’ Centennial Photo Contest "Best of Show" and we  have a winner! Submitted photos were taken on the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge  (Refuge) 100th Anniversary. The refuge, which was established in 1924 through the efforts of Will Dilg,  founder of the Izaak Walton League of America, includes much of the lands and waters of the Mississippi River  from Wabasha, Minnesota to Rock Island, Illinois.  

There were 57 incredible entries from 22 photographers making judging a challenging task. The top three places  in each category received cash prizes and their winning photos became part of a traveling exhibit. The exhibit  was displayed throughout the refuge from Winona, MN to Savanna, IL including during several events  celebrating the 100th Anniversary. Out of 13 stunning photos encompassing the beauty of the refuge only one  was chosen as "Best of Show" by public vote: Invitation by Bruce Bartel.  

Prizes were funded in part by a generous donation from the League of the Ridiculous of La Crosse, Wisconsin. Friends of the Refuge Headwaters are a citizen-based, non-profit organization that partners with and supports the  Winona District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge in meeting the refuge vision  and goals.