VALLEY – Colorado’s agricultural landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop for photographers across the state. From crops blowing in the breeze and a cowboy moving sheep to aerial views of fields and bright sunflowers, winning entries in the 21st annual “Colorado...it’s Agricultural” Photography Contest make Colorado agriculture shine.

“Judges had their work cut out for them this year, with nearly 160 entries submitted,” said Wendy White, marketing specialist at the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “We received photographs from across the state, showcasing the diversity of Colorado agriculture.”

 winners were selected based on relation to Colorado agriculture, creativity and technical quality. The grand-prize winner, which best depicted the “spirit” of Colorado agriculture, is Caleigh Payne of Alamosa with the entry entitled “Caught in the Middle.” The winning photograph shows a cowboy on horseback riding through a herd of sheep.

Other top finishers include Daniel Harvey of Monte Vista, first place in the ag from above category; Karen Mack of Craig, first place in the crops category; Tatum Chase of McClave, first place livestock; Bridger Alan Davis of Evans, first place urban agriculture; and Luke Trautwein of Berthoud, first place open professional.

Individuals receiving an honorable mention include Travis Harvey, Castle Rock.; Patricia Lentell, Wiggins.; Shelby Fisher, Kersey; Beth Weisensee, Deer Trail; John Dansby, Whitewater; Stephanie Jo Kennedy, Arvada; Daniel Bedell, Golden; Sherry Dreher, Vona; and Caleigh Payne, Alamosa.

Started in 1998, the “Colorado...It’s Agricultural” Photography Contest is sponsored by the AgInsights Committee, Colorado Department of Agriculture  Northeastern Junior College. Winning photographs will be displayed in the Beede-Hamil Agriculture Building at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling. They are also available online at www.coloradoagriculture.com.

Daniel Harvey of Monte Vista won first place in the Ag from Above category with “Rejuvenation” taken near Monte Vista.

Caleigh Payne, Alamosa also took an honorable mention in the livestock category for “On the Job” taken in the Rio Grande National Forest.