The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) is partnering with the Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary Program to host Family Bay Day, a free event celebrating the Choctawhatchee Bay’s natural beauty and ecological importance.
- The event will take place on Saturday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park. Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on educational activities at various Exploration Stations, learning about the bay’s unique ecosystem.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary Program for this event, which not only brings our community together but also fosters a deeper appreciation for our local environment,” said Alison McDowell, Executive Director of the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance.
Family Bay Day will feature activities such as fish printing, offering a creative way for attendees of all ages to connect with nature and understand the Choctawhatchee Basin’s vital role in the local environment.
- While the event itself is free, there is a $5 per vehicle park entrance fee. The organizers encourage families and friends to attend and enjoy a day outdoors while learning about the environment.
In conjunction with Family Bay Day, the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) is launching its 2024 Amateur Photo Contest. This contest is part of the Mattie Kelly Environmental Initiative (MKEI) and aims to capture the natural beauty of the Northwest Florida region. Photographers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate.
The contest invites submissions that encompass the natural heritage of Northwest Florida, with a particular focus on the Choctawhatchee Bay area. Participants are asked to share their perspective on what they love about nature in and around the Choctawhatchee Bay.
- This could include images showcasing the beauty of natural surroundings, the connection between people and the environment, or moments that highlight sustainability and science. The submission deadline for the photo contest is September 22, 2024.
Winners of the contest will be rewarded with both recognition and cash prizes. The top three submissions will receive monetary awards:
- First Place: $250
- Second Place: $150
- Third Place: $100
In addition to the cash prizes, winning photos and honorable mentions will be featured in the 2025 Mattie Kelly Environmental Initiative Calendar. This provides an excellent opportunity for amateur photographers to have their work showcased to a wider audience while contributing to environmental awareness.
For more information about the photo contest submission rules and requirements, interested participants can email CBA@nwfsc.edu.
