Capture the Red Cedar Watershed: Photo Contest Now Open!

Red Cedar Watershed Conference seeks photographers for high-quality photos of the land, water, and people of the watershed

Do you have an eye for stunning landscapes, powerful portraits, or the outdoor activities that bring the Red Cedar Watershed to life? The Red Cedar Watershed Conference invites photographers of all skill levels to showcase their talent in a new photo contest celebrating the land, water, and people of the Red Cedar Watershed.

Stretching across nearly 1,900 square miles of northwest Wisconsin, the Red Cedar Watershed includes the communities of Birchwood, Cumberland, Rice Lake, Barron, New Auburn, Glenwood City, and Menomonie. From lakes, rivers, and forests to rolling farmland, community events, and everyday life, the watershed is full of stories waiting to be captured through your lens.

Winning photos will be featured in digital and print marketing for the Red Cedar Watershed Conference and highlighted at the event itself. The top five images will be on display during the 2026 Red Cedar Watershed Conference, where attendees will vote for their favorite. Photographers of the top five submissions will each receive a free registration to the conference. 

How to Enter:

• Contest is open to anyone 18 years or older

• Photos must be taken within the Red Cedar Watershed (see map here)

• Entries can include people, scenery, landscapes, or activities

• Submit your photos through our website, www.uwstout.edu/redcedar , by January 1, 2026

• A signed photo release waiver is required with submission

Don’t miss your chance to showcase your photography and share your perspective on the watershed. For contest rules, registration details, and updates on the Red Cedar Watershed Conference, visit www.uwstout.edu/redcedar and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

Submitted article.