The year 2003 will be a very special year for the National Wildlife Refuge System -- it not only marks the close of a century of great accomplishments for conservation through the Refuge System, but also marks the beginning of a new century full of potential. A special edition of the National Wildlife System calendar will be devoted to sharing the beauty and diversity of refuges and the people who enjoy them.

In conjunction with the Refuge System's Centennial in 2003, the Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with the North American Nature Photography Association, is sponsoring a "call for photographs." It is open to everyone - amateur and professional photographers alike. Selected images will be used to create a commemorative National Wildlife Refuge System Centennial Calendar in 2003.

Complete guidelines for photo submittal can be obtained by logging onto http://refuges.fws.gov/centennial. To be considered for this special calendar, submittals must be postmarked no later than Monday, October 1. Those without web access should contact: Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, 1101 Casey Road, Basom, 14013 or call (716) 948-5445 for a hard copy.

This competition is not the same as the annual amateur photography contest, "Focus on Nature" which is held at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge in October. For information and an application form for "Focus on Nature," contact the refuge at the above address.