Celebrate nature in Teagasc forest photo contest

The annual Teagasc and Department of Agriculture photo competition invites photographers to showcase the vital role of trees and forests. With themes focused on trees’ impact on water, farming, and biodiversity, entrants have until 20 November to participate.

Photographers across Ireland are encouraged to enter the annual Teagasc and Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) Forest Photo Competition, which celebrates the vital contributions of trees to our environment and farming landscapes. This year’s competition, open until 20 November 2026, embraces the theme ‘Letting trees work for us,’ spotlighting how trees enhance biodiversity, improve farm sustainability, and support aquatic ecosystems.

Competition themes and benefits

Participants can submit up to one photograph per each of the three inspiring categories:

Trees and water: Images illustrating the harmonious relationship between trees and water bodies, highlighting their role in filtering runoff, stabilising riverbanks, moderating temperatures, and enriching aquatic habitats.

Trees on the farm: Showcasing how trees complement farming activities by providing shelter for animals and crops, enhancing the landscape’s beauty, and contributing to sustainable agriculture.

Forest biodiversity: Capturing the diverse wildlife that thrives in and around forests, including birds, insects, fungi, and flowering plants that make these habitats so vital.

Teagasc Forestry Development’s Tom Houlihan emphasises that the competition not only fosters artistic talent but also raises awareness of the environmental and economic value of well-managed woodlands.

Prizes and participation details

The competition welcomes photographers of all ages, with separate junior and adult categories. Prizes generously sponsored by DAFM include:

€300 for each adult category theme winner
€150 for each junior category theme winner
An overall grand prize of €300 (adult) and €150 (junior)

Entrants are advised to review the competition terms and conditions carefully before submitting their photographs. The current favourable autumn weather offers an excellent opportunity to explore forests and capture stunning images ahead of the deadline. For more information and to enter, details are available on the official Teagasc website. Teagasc and DAFM warmly thank all participants who have submitted photos so far and encourage further entries before the closing date on 20 November 2026.