The Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center is now accepting photographs for the Fish Fest Photo Contest. The theme for the contest is the flora and fauna found on the grounds of the hatchery. The grounds offer several different habitats including wetlands, forests and ponds that are home to a variety of plant and animal species, offering photographers a wide variety of subject matter to choose from.

Each photograph submitted must be of an animal or plant that was photographed on the grounds of the hatchery. All entries must come from amateur photographers only. Photos must include the name, address, email and phone number of the photographer along with the date and approximate location where it was taken on the hatchery grounds. There is a limit of two entries per person. All entries must be: 8 x 10 in size, matted without frame or glass with mattes securely adhered to the photograph. Entry deadline is July 10, 2008. Photos that do not meet these criteria will be disqualified and returned.

Photographers may choose to pick up their photographs after Fish Fest through July 27, 2008. Photographs will be mailed after this date, if an envelope large enough to accommodate the photograph and stamped with adequate postage is provided. All photos not picked up by July 27 will become the property of the Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery Visitor Center.

Judging is conducted by an impartial team of volunteers knowledgeable about photography. Entries will be displayed upon receipt through Fish Fest taking place July 19-20. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded. Winners will be announced, displayed in a special booth and prizes awarded during Fish Fest.

Entries may be hand delivered or mailed to the Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery Visitor Center at 34270 County Road 652, Mattawan, MI 49071. For information about events and programs, contact Shana McMillan at (269) 668-2876.