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RCRC Announces Winner of Tenth Annual Rural County Photo Contest

Aug 20, 2026   Special Feature
Red and White Lighthouse with seashore and clouds with sun peeking through

RCRC is pleased to announce the winner of our 10th Annual Rural County Photo Contest. First place was awarded to Ashley Fox for her stunning photograph of the historic Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse overlooking the rugged Humboldt County coastline.

The dramatic image captures sunlight breaking through dense coastal clouds and streaming across the Pacific Ocean, illuminating the lighthouse and surrounding shoreline. The photograph contrasts the warm glow of the lighthouse beacon and sun rays with the dark sky, rocky sea stacks, and forested coastline in the distance, showcasing both the natural beauty and maritime heritage of California’s North Coast.

“Congratulations to Ashley Fox of Tehama County on earning first place in the RCRC Rural County Photo Contest,” said Humboldt County Supervisor and RCRC Board Delegate Rex Bohn. “Her photograph of the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse beautifully captures the breathtaking scenery, historic architecture, and coastal character that make Humboldt County so special. The image is a remarkable example of the extraordinary places found throughout rural California.”

This year’s competition received a record 327 entries from 160 photographers. The RCRC Board of Directors selected the top three photographs at its August 19 meeting.

Second place was awarded to Eric Wiseman for his striking drone photograph of the Trinity Alps in Trinity County, captured just before sunrise on the Winter Solstice.

Third place went to Megan Zaied for her photograph of Sonoma County vineyard rows stretching across the rolling terrain of Alexander Valley.

For additional details, and to view the finalist photographs, read the press release HERE. Learn more about the contest and view prior winning images HERE.