ALASKA — The Alaska Region’s annual employee photo contest has once again brought together hundreds of breathtaking photos taken by employees working in the state’s majestic Tongass and Chugach national forests.

These photos, captured during day-to-day work and off-duty adventures, display the beauty and diversity of Alaska’s landscapes, wildlife and culture. From sweeping mountain vistas to intimate shots of wildlife and vibrant Indigenous traditions, these images tell the stories of Alaska’s national forests — where nature, people and tradition and come together.  

Organized into eight captivating categories—Scenic, Recreation, Wildlife, Flora and Fungi, Traditions and Alaska Experiences, Fishing, Hunting and Foraging, People, Projects and Employees at Work, and Memes & GIFs—the 2024 collection celebrates the unique experiences of those dedicated to serving the region.

The yearly contest also features three special awards: the Regional Forester’s Choice, Best of the Tongass, and Best of the Chugach, which recognize the standout contributions among the hundreds of photo submissions.

The 2024 employee photo contest winners, divided by category, are:

• Traditions & Alaska Experiences: Danielle MacPhee

• Scenic: Rich DiJulia

• Recreation: Greg Stafford

• Wildlife: Gwen Baluss

• Flora & Fungi: Jenna Wilson-Ashby

• Fishing, Hunting, & Foraging: Jenna Wilson-Ashby

• People, Projects, & Employees: Shane Balian

• Memes & GIFs: Michael Flunker

This year’s contest features three special awards which recognize the standout contributions among the hundreds of photo submissions. The special award winners are:

• Regional Forester’s Choice: Shane Balian

• Best of the Tongass: Jennifer Kardiak

• Best of the Chugach: Shane Balian

The winning photos, along with all photo submissions, are available for public viewing and use on Flickr. The photos provide an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore Alaska through the lens of those who know it best. Alaska Region employees are excited to share their photos with everyone.

Whether you are creating a presentation, telling a story, seeking inspiration for a project, or simply looking to admire Alaska’s natural wonders, these photos offer diverse perspectives and subjects.

The Alaska Region encourages all to make use of this rich and captivating archive. The images, while diverse in content, share a common thread: a deep connection to Alaska’s land, people, and wildlife.

By visiting the Flickr page, anyone can download and share these stunning images, ensuring that the unique beauty of Alaska is celebrated everywhere, all thanks to the talented Forest Service employees working to manage, protect and preserve these wild and wonderful public lands.