Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Illinois State Treasurer Michel Frerichs is inviting students aged 8 to 18 to share their vision of agriculture in the state as part of the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest. The contest, now in its 12th year, invites students to submit innovative or scenic pictures that show their vision of agriculture in Illinois.

“My office sponsors the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest to put a spotlight on agriculture and to inspire young people to share their creativity through photography,” Frerichs said. “We encourage students to explore the beauty and diversity of Illinois agriculture, and we celebrate our great state’s status as a leader in the agricultural industry.”

Entries may be submitted at www.CreamoftheCropContest.com. Top photographs will be chosen in three age-based categories: ages 8‑10, 11‑14 and 15-18. Each student may submit up to two photos by June 14, 2024. The top three in each age category will receive a Bright Start scholarship ranging from $1,000 to $250.

Winning photos will be featured in Ag Invest marketing material and the Cream of the Crop calendar as well as at the 2024 Illinois State Fair.