The purpose of this contest is to reward exceptional “outdoor” journalism (writing, reporting, opinion/editorial, broadcasting, photography, videography/cinematography, and digital communications) produced by OWAC members. Works must have been released during the 2024 calendar year, except for books, which were published within two years between 1-1-2023 and 12-31-2024. Entries should have a clear connection to the outdoors, outdoor recreation, nature, wildlife, public lands, or craft improvement related to one of the disciplines related to our profession. The book category also includes works with a connection to our profession (photography, writing, broadcasting, multimedia, etc.) All works must have been on a remunerated basis.

Judges have the right to disqualify an entry should they determine it does not sufficiently represent one of the subjects described in Rule #1. Judges may elect not to award in any category, regardless of the number of entries, and may award more than one prize in any category up to two places. Ties are disallowed. Judges will not be members of OWAC and non-OWAC judges will certify they do not know the name of the author of the work they are judging.

Entries must be received between March 1 and April 30, 2025. Entrants must have paid their 2025 OWAC membership dues at the time of submission. There is no limit to the number of entries that may be submitted per entrant in any given category. An entry in one category cannot be submitted in another category with the exception of a conference-related work, which can also be entered in Category 7. All entries except books are to be submitted as jpgs, pdfs, links (urls), or other digital format. The name of the author need NOT be obscured.

For books, a revised edition of a previously published book is acceptable, but it must be the first time the book in any edition has been entered in the OWAC EIC.

For websites or apps, submit links to the pages to be judged.

Contest is open to all OWAC members. The fee to submit entries in all categories is $20 for the first entry and $10 for each subsequent entry.

Article and Photo submission format – All entries, except books, must be submitted via the Zealous software link which will be set up by March 1st 2025.

Book entry submission format – Mail to address below:

(1) Two copies of the physical book or a link to an online entry,

(2) Author’s Name, mail, Telephone, Postal Address, Category Number, Book Title, Where and When published.

(3) check to cover the entry fees.