The Maryland Department of Natural Resources awarded Debby Berlyne of Rockville its grand prize for a photo she shot of a green heron at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton.
When explaining her photo entry, Berlyne wrote, “I was taking photos of flowers at Brookside Gardens when I spotted this green heron perched on a nearby tree. I didn’t have the long lens on my camera that I usually use for bird photography. But the wider angle of the lens I was using let me capture not only the bird, but also its beautiful surroundings. So sometimes using the wrong lens can work out!”
Berlyne received $700, a Maryland State Park and Trail Passport and free entry into next year’s contest as well as five copies of the 2025 calendar with her winning photo on the cover.
This year’s contest received more than 1,800 photo submissions. Winners were chosen in other categories, including the four seasons.
To cast a vote for “the Fan Favorite” photo, go to the department’s FB page. Vote by Oct. 22.
