For Immediate Release: Monday, March 21, 2016 Nominations are being accepted for the Montgomery County Department of Transportation’s (MCDOT) annual Keep Montgomery County Clean and Green (formerly Keep Montgomery County Beautiful) Landscaping and Photography competitions. The focus of the Annual Landscape Beautification Contest has changed to emphasize environmentally sensitive plantings that support beauty without toxicity by avoiding non-native and invasive species, helping reduce stormwater runoff, minimizing water use, providing wildlife habitat, and keeping pesticides and fertilizers out of local streams. The contest is open to community groups, businesses, public institutions and other organizations undertaking landscaping projects that enhance the appearance of commonly owned sections of commercial or residential properties in Montgomery County. Landscaping along County roadsides, medians, or other public locations is also eligible for the award. Applications are due June 3. The Annual Amateur Photography Contest celebrates the beauty of Montgomery County and her people. Photos submitted of County locations or residents are judged on effective composition, originality, interest and relevance of the subject matter and technique. Categories include Montgomery County by day or by night, County landmarks, people and persons at work. There is also an optional Youth category for aspiring photographers ages 18 and younger who wish to be judged only against their peers. Applications are due by July 1. MCDOT’s Community Outreach website has examples of previous year’s winning entries for both contests and the landscaping and photography contest applications, which explain the guidelines and judging criteria. For more information, call Community Outreach at 240-777-7155 or email mailto:mcdot.outreach@montgomerycountymd.gov to request an application either by mail or electronically. # # # Release ID: 16-108 Media Contact: Lorraine Driscoll 240-777-6507

landscaping contest http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Files/2016LandscapingApplication.pdf

photography contest applications http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Files/2016PhotoContest.pdf

http://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?PrID=15905]]>