FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 23, 2023

Team MCV announces top dogs for second annual “Pups for Public Lands” photo contes

Canine-focused campaign promotes Montana public lands and responsible recreation

(Bozeman, Mont.) – Today the Montana Conservation Voters Education Fund announced the top 12 dogs for its Public Lands Month “Pups for Public Lands” photo contest.

In celebration and support of Public Lands and responsible outdoor recreation, the MCV Education Fund asked Montanans to share pictures of exploring Montana’s public lands with their dogs.

With over 150 entries, the second annual campaign featured spectacular pictures of dogs from the Beartooths to the Pintlers and everywhere in between.

“Our furry friends are just another reason why Montanans love public lands,” said Whitney Tawney, Executive Director of the MCV Education Fund. “We hope sharing photos of pups exploring inspires Montanans of all stripes to rally around the importance of protecting our public lands for future generations and to get engaged.”

All 12 finalists will be featured in MCV Education Fund’s upcoming 2024 Pups for Public Lands calendar and receive leashes from Mtn straps and West Paw treats sourced from local Montana ranchers. The judging was done by a panel of Montana canines and their owners: Nellie and writer Andrew McKean; Wiley, Bowie, Teddy, and writer Wes Siler; and Baloo, Sparky and conservationist Rebecca Edwards.

The top three Finalists, winners of a grand prize package from West Paw, are:

Lemon “living her best life” at Pine Creek Lake