Layton man wins photo prize

WASHINGTON — Ted Steinke of Layton won the top prize in the fourth annual National Wildlife Refuge Photography Contest, sponsored by the National Wildlife Refuge Association.

Steinke's explosive image of two northern harriers sparring was taken at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge near Brigham City.

Steinke will be awarded $5,000 in cash, provided by ATP Oil and Gas Corporation.

The NWRA's digital photography contest showcases the scenery and wildlife of America's national wildlife refuges. More than 2,000 images taken by photographers in 44 states and territories were submitted in this year's contest. Images were submitted by upload through the contest Web site from May 1-July 15.

"Images of spectacular wildlife and landscapes tell the refuge system story: that these 550 conservation gems are vital to sustaining America's diverse wildlife heritage," said Evan Hirsche, president of the NWRA. "These photos will help us illustrate why it's so important to protect and conserve our wildlife and habitats for the benefit of future generations."

Second place went to Mike McBride of Afton, Wyo., and third place was awarded to Steve Dimock of Beaverton, Ore.

Parks board meeting today

The Board of Utah State Parks and Recreation meets today from 1 to 2:35 p.m. at the Department of Natural Resources Building located at 1594 W. North Temple. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend the meeting.

Topics for discussion include project recommendations for Utah Federal Recreational Trails Program fiscal assistance and redistribution of funds from the State Trails and Pathways Program.

Learn to skate program set

OGDEN — Registration is now open for the fall session of the Learn-to-Skate program offered at the Weber County Ice Sheet.

The U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills Program is for skaters of all ages and abilities who want to learn the sport and begin a lifelong commitment to health and wellness. Classes are available for preschool age through adult.

Cost of the six-week session is $40, which includes skate rental, professional instruction, record book, stickers and a badge for each level completed. Participants will also receive a punch pass good for five sessions of public skating or freestyle sessions at the Ice Sheet, and one buddy pass to share with a friend.

Weekly classes are held from 5-6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays through Dec. 15 or on Thursdays beginning today through Dec. 17, with one week off during Thanksgiving. Register at the Weber County Ice Sheet, 4390 Harrison Blvd., adjacent to the Dee Events Center.

For more information, call 801-778-6300 or e-mail kakovar@co.weber.ut.us.

Red Fleet State Park closes

VERNAL — Due to reductions in its park operations budget, Red Fleet State Park is closed until March 31, 2010.

The main entrance and north side gates are closed. Anglers and campers may visit Steinaker State Park, which is located seven miles north of Vernal on Highway 191.

This seasonal closure saves park expenses, including seasonal salaries, and utility and snow removal costs.

For more information, call 435-789-4432.