Alley Pond to Host Photography Contest, Biodiversity Forum

Alley Pond Environmental Center is hosting a photography contest that will enable children and youths to take snapshots of the city’s wildlife, flora or natural landscapes. Winners will receive cash prizes during a forum on biodiversity later this month.

The center, located at 228-06 Northern Blvd. in Douglaston, will reward photographers with first and second place prizes for three different age groups, including 8 to 13 years old, 14 to 17 years and 18 to 21 years.

The three categories for the contest are photos of wildlife, plants and landscapes in the five boroughs.

All photos, which must be digital images, should be sent to the center by April 13.

The winning entries will be displayed during the Saving Urban Biodiversity forum, which will take place from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on April 27 at the environmental center.

The free event, which is aimed at high school and college-aged students, will address issues involving biodiversity in northeast Queens.

“The forum came out of our fight against invasive species here in the park,” said Irene Scheid, director of the center. “We’re trying to get young people to be more active.”

The program will include keynote speakers and two expert panels, who will discuss what needs to be done to protect nature in the community.

Scheid said the event will hold an estimated 100 people, but that there is no need to sign up in advance.

Refreshments will be provided by Manhasset’s Whole Foods Inc.

The event is a collaboration between the environmental center and Central Veterinary Associates.

Download materials, including the photography contest’s rules, exclusions and required entry forms, at Alley Pond Environmental Center’s website.

For more information, call 718-229-4000 or email info@alleypond.com.