Overall, I would have to say that this shot does not match up to your usual standard. It doesn't communicate to me that you were trying to get something specific across and the technicals distract from the photos aesthetic appeal.
Technically: Your smallish depth of field focuses the eye on the right, but the actual focus isn't as tight as I would expect - or very possibly you have a little shake from being in the canoe at such a relatively slow shutter for the focal length - can the D80 not push the ISO a little more? The lighting is quite stark and gives huge contrast between the trunks and the water which doesn't really appeal to me.
Artistically: There is some thirds action here, but not knowing what I am supposed to be seeing, it is difficult to use this effectively. I also suspect that the theme being 'country life', the voters were expecting something more dynamic.
Overall, it is a pleasant enough scene, but I am very confident of your ability to represent it more strongly.
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