The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced Josh Montgomery as the winner of the inaugural Maryland DNR Photo Contest for waterfowl, recognizing his striking image of his retriever, River, carrying a canvasback duck. Captured in Anne Arundel County, the photograph will be featured on a new collectible hard-card license available through the MD Outdoors licensing system and in the DNR 2026 Maryland Natural Resource Calendar.
The Maryland DNR Photo Contest, held for the first time this year, invited photographers to submit images showcasing waterfowl and hunting scenes. Montgomery’s winning entry stood out among numerous submissions for its vivid depiction of his retriever in action. “Congratulations to our winner and all participants. We had a fantastic group of entries depicting many scenes and species,” said Karina Stonesifer, Wildlife and Heritage Service Director. “This iconic image is a great way to introduce our new licensing system and the hard cards that are available for collection”.
Montgomery, an avid hunter and photographer, captured the moment while hunting with River in Anne Arundel County. “Hunting is my passion and I enjoy sharing it through the camera,” Montgomery said. “In the moment I was able to capture River happily doing her job retrieving bird after bird from the icy waters and one epic experience that we won’t soon forget.” His photograph encapsulates the bond between hunter and retriever, set against Maryland’s natural landscapes.
Contest Details and Future Plans
Following the success of the inaugural Maryland DNR Photo Contest, the department plans to integrate waterfowl photography into its annual photo contest starting next season. The broader DNR Photo Contest, which accepts entries across various categories, is open until August 1. Photographers are encouraged to submit images that highlight Maryland’s wildlife, landscapes, and outdoor heritage.
The Maryland DNR Photo Contest aims to celebrate the state’s natural beauty and promote engagement with its outdoor traditions. Winners of the annual contest, including future waterfowl category entries, will be selected each fall, with selected images featured in DNR publications and promotional materials.
New Licensing System and Collectible Cards
Montgomery’s winning image will appear on a limited-edition hard-card license, a durable alternative to traditional paper licenses. Available through the MD Outdoors platform, these collectible cards appeal to hunters and anglers seeking a unique keepsake. Maryland hunters and anglers can purchase licenses online at MD Outdoors, at DNR service centers, or through sport license agent retailers. The hard-card option enhances the licensing experience by combining functionality with commemorative value.
The 2026 Maryland Natural Resource Calendar, featuring Montgomery’s photograph alongside other contest winners, will be available for purchase in fall 2025. The calendar highlights Maryland’s diverse ecosystems and serves as a visual tribute to the state’s outdoor heritage.
Background and Context
The Maryland DNR Photo Contest aligns with the department’s mission to promote conservation and outdoor recreation. By showcasing images like Montgomery’s, the contest fosters appreciation for Maryland’s wildlife and hunting traditions. The introduction of hard-card licenses reflects DNR’s efforts to modernize its licensing system while offering collectors a tangible connection to the state’s natural resources.
The MD Outdoors platform streamlines license purchases, making it easier for residents and visitors to participate in hunting and fishing activities. With the integration of waterfowl photography into the annual contest, DNR anticipates increased participation from photographers and outdoor enthusiasts, further strengthening Maryland’s reputation as a destination for nature-based recreation.
