The eagerly awaited 2024 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Exhibit is set to make its premiere at the EcoWild Outdoor Expo, slated for May 10-12 at the Mobile Convention Center in Mobile according to a news release. Beginning on Friday at noon, the event promises a captivating showcase of nature's beauty captured through the lenses of talented photographers.

Curated from the cream of the crop, the traveling exhibit will feature the top four photographs from 10 distinct categories of the 2024 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest. Among these categories are Alabama State Parks, Birds, Wildlife, Nature-based Recreation, Bugs and Butterflies, Shoots and Roots, Cold-blooded Critters, Scenic, Sweet Home Alabama and Young Photographers.

“Our annual photo contest is one of the ways we promote the concept of natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation in Alabama,” said Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), in the release. “It’s a great way for us to connect with audiences who may not hunt, fish or target shoot but enjoy the natural resources that are supported through conservation funding that hunting, fishing and shooting sports provide.”

In the United States, conservation endeavors primarily rely on funding from the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration acts, which impose excise taxes on select hunting, fishing and shooting sports equipment. These funds are then allocated to states based on various factors, including size and the volume of license sales.

“Outdoor Alabama’s photo contest and exhibit not only showcase the incredible talents of the winning photographers they shine a spotlight on the abundant wildlife and beautiful landscapes of Alabama that are made possible, in part, through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses,” said Billy Pope, Director of ADCNR’s Communications and Marketing Section. “We are excited to debut this year’s exhibit at the very first EcoWild Outdoor Expo in Mobile. We are also grateful for our partners at PMT Publishing for making this event possible.”

The much-anticipated EcoWild Outdoor Expo, spanning three days, will offer a myriad of family-friendly activities, vendor stalls, and educational sessions on hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, birdwatching and more. Organized by PMT Publishing, a stalwart in regional magazine publications and southeastern events for over four decades, the Expo aims to foster awareness about conservation efforts and outdoor recreation opportunities across the state.

Frances Hurley, PMT Publishing's Events Coordinator, highlighted the Expo's inclusive design, tailored to cater to a diverse audience keen on exploring outdoor pursuits and conservation initiatives.

“There will be something for everybody at the Expo,” Hurley said. “We hope families will attend and learn about hunting or fishing opportunities and learn from experts in the field. There will be several interactive activities for them to experience like a rock wall and butterfly house. The Outdoor Alabama (ADCNR) classroom will also feature lots of information and activities focused on conservation in the state including archery, saltwater touch tanks and animal ambassadors. It should be a great experience for anyone who attends.”

For event details, including operating hours and ticket purchases, interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.ecowildexpo.com.

For additional insights into the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest and the 2024 exhibit schedule, visitors can explore www.outdooralabama.com/photocontest.

ADCNR remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the prudent stewardship, management, and enjoyment of Alabama's natural resources. To learn more about ADCNR's initiatives across its four divisions—Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries—visit www.outdooralabama.com.