That old saw that a picture is worth a thousand words gets added value when you check out the annual winners of the "Colorado … It's AgriCultural" photo contest. The event, entering its 20th year, aims to capture the beauty of the state's agriculture, from green fields to pollinators to cowboys. And over the years, talented entrants have helped chronical a wide-ranging view of a key industry for the state.

From budding shutterbugs to successful professionals, the contest has drawn a range of imagery over the years. "For 20 years, we've showcased Colorado agriculture through contest pictures," says Don Brown, commissioner of agriculture. "The one thing that remains constant is the beauty and bounty that our agricultural lands provide."

The rules for the contest are pretty basic. Entries must be submitted to the Colorado Department of Agriculture by email with an official entry form by Dec. 31. All photos must have been taken in the 2017 calendar year and must relate to Colorado agriculture in some way.

Prizes are awarded in six subject categories: Colorado cuisine, crops, livestock, people, open professional and wildlife in agriculture. Amateur and professional photographers are encouraged to enter, but pros may only enter ag-related photos in the open professional category.

Judging for the contest is based on the theme, creativity and technical quality of the image. The photographer whose picture best depicts the spirit of Colorado agriculture will receive $150.

Category winners will receive a Colorado … It's AgriCultural prize pack.

Winning photos will be displayed in the Beede-Hamil Agriculture Building at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colo., and they will be posted online at coloradoagriculture.com.

Visit coloradoagriculture.com/aginsights for contest rules and an entry form. The contest is sponsored by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, the AgInsights Committee and Northeastern Junior College.

Source: Colorado Department of Agriculture