Wetlands in focus

February 2nd is World Wetlands Day, and the Protect Illinois Waters coalition is excited to kick off the Wetlands in Focus photo blitz. Wetlands improve water quality, provide important flood control, protect our groundwater, and preserve endangered habitats. We want you to capture the beauty and diversity of wetlands through photography and share with your family and friends.

Here’s how you can be part of sharing the beauty of Illinois wetlands.

Step 1: Choose a Wetland Location

Select a wetland location that you know and love, grab your camera and make a plan to visit.

Step 2: Point. Click. Shoot. Post.

From World Wetlands Day on February 2, 2024 to Earth Day on April 22, 2024 we welcome you to take and post your best pictures of wetland landscapes from dusk till dawn. Post your images on your social media and use the hashtag #ProtectILWaters.

Some potential categories for inspiration include:

• Wetland flora and fauna
• Bird species in wetlands
• Macro photography of insects or plants
• Reflections in wetlands
• Wetland textures and patterns
• Families and fun outdoors at wetlands

Remember to always respect the wetland environment and follow local regulations and guidelines while conducting the photo blitz. Enjoy the experience and have fun capturing the beauty of wetlands through photography!

You can also share photos from previous visits to Illinois wetlands. Have a great photo from last summer or fall? Share your throwback photo with the hashtag #ProtectILWaters

Why these wetlands photos are important

Protecting wetlands helps filter and purify water, ensuring that the water sources used by Illinoisans for drinking, recreation and agriculture remain clean and free from pollutants. They also provide habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Yet, while wetlands play a critical role in ecosystem health, they are frequently misunderstood. Sharing photos of wetlands around the state can highlight the important role wetlands play and celebrate their beauty.

What will the Protect Illinois Waters coalition do with the blitz pics?

Photos tagged with #ProtectILWaters will automatically be part of our Wetlands in Focus photo blitz. Your photos will accumulate under the hashtag #ProtectILWaters. Follow the hashtag to see photos that other photo blitz participants.

From World Wetland Day until Earth Day (February 2-April 22), we will search for the best photos to showcase Illinois wetlands. Then, throughout American Wetlands Month in May the Protect Illinois Waters coalition plans to showcase some of the amazing photos of wetlands across the state.