National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, W. Va.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest will be held on October 28 and 29, 2011, at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, W. Va.

The event is the oldest and most prestigious wildlife art competition in the United States.

The winning design chosen at the competition will grace the 2012-2013 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, or “Duck Stamp,” the cornerstone of one of the world’s most successful conservation programs that supports the acquisition of millions of acres of wetland habitat for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

• WHAT: 2011 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest judging
• WHO: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• WHEN: Friday and Saturday, October 28 and 29 Doors open at 9 a.m. each day. The event is free and open to the public. Contest judging will take place from approximately 10a.m. to noon each day. The contest winner will be announced at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Saturday.
• WHERE: National Conservation Training Center 698 Conservation Way, Shepherdstown, WV 25443

2011-2012 Federal Duck Stamp

Buying a $15 Federal Duck Stamp is possibly the single most effective purchase anyone can make to directly participate in wetland conservation throughout the United States. All waterfowl hunters age 16 and older are required to purchase and carry a current Federal Duck Stamp.

However, the stamp is not only for hunters. Conservationists, recreational birders, stamp collectors and others also buy the stamp to support wetland habitat conservation for a wide diversity of animals and plants. Ninety-eight percent of the proceeds from Duck Stamp sales go to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, which supports the purchase of wetlands for inclusion into the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Since 1934, sales of Federal Duck Stamps have helped to purchase 5.3 million acres of wildlife habitat for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

For more information visit: http://www.fws.gov/duckstamps

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

California 2011 Upland Game Bird Stamp Art Contest Winner

California Department Of Fish And Game

California --(Ammoland.com)- The California Department of Fish and Game is sponsoring an art contest for the 2012-2013 design for the state upland game bird stamp.

Open to all U.S. residents age 18 and older, entries will be accepted beginning Saturday until the Jan. 31, 2012 deadline. Entries must feature the band-tailed pigeon (Columba fasciata), and must include at least one adult bird.

A California upland game bird stamp is required for hunting resident and migratory upland game birds, including quail, wild turkey, pheasant and dove. Hunters are no longer required to physically attach the stamp to their license, but the stamps are still produced and mailed to purchasers upon request.

The department sells about 200,000 of the stamps annually, which are also prized by art collectors. Limited-edition signed prints may also be available for purchase. Proceeds from sales are spent on upland game bird-related projects, including conservation, education and outreach programs.

Designs will be judged on originality, artistic composition, anatomical accuracy and suitability for reproduction as a stamp and print. The winning entry will be chosen during a public judging event next spring, date and location to be determined.

Contest rules, entry forms and further information can be found on the department’s website.

Image of 2011/2012 upland game bird stamp by artist Jeffrey Kleinefelter, of Etna Green, Ind., courtesy of Matt Elyash / Department of Fish and Game

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The contest will be held October 28-29 in Shepardstown, W.Va. If you are in the area, we highly recommend a visit to the contest.

The 2011 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest will be held at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, W. Va., on October 28 and 29. This is the first time in the contest’s 61-year history that the event has been held in West Virginia.

The winning design chosen during the contest will be made into the 2012 (RW79) Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, or “Duck Stamp,” the cornerstone of one of the world’s most successful conservation programs.

“Having this prestigious contest at the National Conservation Training Center provides a unique opportunity to build on the long history of wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation in our country,” said Jay Slack, Director of the Service’s training center. “Never has it been more important to conserve and restore wetland habitat, especially as we search for methods to minimize the effects of climate change, for waterfowl and the multitude of other species that depend on wetlands.”

The $15 Federal Duck Stamp is a vital tool for wetland conservation, with 98 cents of every dollar generated going to purchase or lease wetland habitat for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Since the stamp’s inception, sales have helped to acquire nearly six million acres of wildlife habitat at hundreds of refuges in nearly every state.

The Federal Duck Stamp art contest is the only art competition of its kind sponsored by the federal government. Since the first open contest was held in 1949, thousands of wildlife artists from throughout the nation have submitted art to the annual contest. While the winner receives no money from the federal government, the winning artist may benefit from the increased visibility and sale of prints and artwork.

The first Federal Duck Stamp was designed in 1934 by Iowa native and editorial cartoonist J.N. “Ding” Darling, who was the director of the Bureau of Biological Survey, forerunner to the Fish and Wildlife Service. It sold for $1. The stamp currently sells for $15, and more than 1.5 million people buy Duck Stamps annually.

Every waterfowl hunter age 16 or older is required to buy a Federal Duck Stamp. In addition, the stamps are highly sought after by collectors, conservationists and wildlife art aficionados. A current Federal Duck Stamp also provides free admission into any refuge open to the public. There are 550 National Wildlife Refuges spread across all 50 states and U.S. territories, offering unparalleled wildlife oriented recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, bird watching and photography.

For information about the Federal Duck Stamp Program and about the 2011 Federal Duck Stamp Contest, go to: http://www.fws.gov/duckstamps. You can also check out the Federal Duck Stamp on Facebook: by going to http://www.facebook.com and searching “Federal Duck Stamp.”

Click Here to see all the beautiful Duck Sta,p Entries.

H/T shduck.com

Wisconsin Waterfowl Stamp Funding

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin --(Ammoland.com)- Thirty-six projects around the state are scheduled in the coming year to receive funds generated by the sale of Wisconsin waterfowl stamps.

While one-third of this stamp money is statutorily required  to be sent to Canada for habitat work, the remaining two-thirds, around $360,000 annually, is available for Wisconsin projects.

The process of selecting new projects begins the spring prior to the start of the state’s biennium, when DNR biologists and partner conservation organizations are invited to submit applications for funds.

Projects must benefit Wisconsin waterfowl, and priority is given to projects in targeted areas.

The projects are reviewed and funding recommendations made by the DNR Migratory Game Bird Committee, which is made up of researchers and biologists from each of the DNR districts and representatives from federal and private organizations involved in wetland restoration and management.

Final approval of projects to receive funding comes from the Wildlife Policy Team.

Facts regarding the 36 waterfowl stamp funded habitat projects:

• Twenty-one are new projects and 15 are projects that began in previous years and are ongoing (wetland projects are some of the most difficult projects to undertake and occasionally take years to complete).
• Seven of the funded projects are being cost-shared with the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission.
• Another 6 projects are being cost-shared by or have engineering support from Ducks Unlimited. Leveraging our money in this manner allows more projects to be funded.
• Five of the projects are planned for use as match for North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grants and another 4 are projects that could be used as match for future NAWCA grants. Again, more leveraging of the stamp dollars to get more bang for the buck.

Twenty-three of the 36 projects are for major maintenance at wetlands. The need for maintenance and renovation of our wetlands is an increasing concern.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- The new federal Duck Stamp went on sale in late June.

A remarkable 98 percent of the proceeds from the sale of this $15 stamp supports wetlands acquisition for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Many hunters, conservationists, birders and other wildlife enthusiasts display their ducks stamp proudly to help educate others about wildlife conservation.

All waterfowl hunters age 16 and older are required to purchase and carry a current Federal Duck Stamp, Since 1934, Federal Duck Stamp sales have raised more than $750 million to protect more than 5.3 million acres of wetlands in a 50 states and U.S. territories.

About NSSF
The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of more than 6,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

2011-2012 Federal Duck Stamp

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host the First Day of Sale for the 2011-2012 Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp on June 24 at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World retail store at the Katy Mills Mall in Katy, Texas. Doors open at 9:00 a.m., and the ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The 2011-2012 Federal Duck Stamp features two white-fronted geese painted by artist James Hautman of Chaska, Minn. Last October, five judges chose his art to grace the new Duck Stamp from among 235 paintings at the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest, held in Berkeley, Calif.

All waterfowl hunters age 16 and older are required to purchase and carry a current Federal Duck Stamp, but conservationists, birders, stamp collectors and others also buy the stamp as an investment in conservation.

Ninety-eight percent of the proceeds from the $15 Duck Stamp go to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, which supports wetlands acquisition for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Since 1934, Federal Duck Stamp sales have raised more than $750 million to protect more than 5.3 million acres of wetlands on hundreds of the 551 national wildlife refuges spread across all 50 states and U.S. territories.

The 2011-2012 Junior Duck Stamp was created by Abraham Hunter, 17, of Vienna, Ill. In April, Hunter’s painting of a pair of ring-necked ducks was chosen from among 51 Best-of-Show winners from every state and the U.S. Virgin Islands at the National Junior Duck Stamp Competition. The Service sells the Junior Duck Stamp for $5 to stamp collectors, conservationists and the general public. Proceeds from Junior Duck Stamp sales support environmental education efforts and awards for contest winners.

• WHAT: First Day of Sale for the 2011-2012 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps
• WHEN: Friday, June 24, 2011 Doors open at 9 a.m., ceremony begins at 10 a.m. Autograph session and stamp sales immediately following the ceremony
• WHERE: Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World 5000 Katy Mills Circle Katy, Texas 77494

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Ringneck Ducks Abraham Hunter

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today a pair of ringneck ducks was selected to appear on the 2011-2012 Federal Junior Duck Stamp.

The design for the new stamp, painted by 17-year-old Abraham Hunter of Vienna, Ill., was chosen by a panel of judges at the national Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest, held at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia.

The acrylic entry, which won the Illinois State Junior Duck Stamp Contest, was judged the winner among Best-of-Show entries from all 50 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Proceeds from sales of the Junior Duck Stamp, which the Fish and Wildlife Service sells for $5 to stamp collectors, conservationists and the public, support environmental and conservation education efforts, and awards for contest winners.

“I’d like to congratulate our winning artist as well as the participants in the Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program,” said Acting Director Rowan Gould of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“These young people not only possess amazing artistic talent, but are also future conservation stewards who will care for our birds, fish and other wild creatures.”

Matthew Messina, 17, of Avon Conn., took second place with an oil painting depicting a single lesser scaup. Third place went to Christine Clayton, 16, of Sidney, Ohio, for her acrylic rendition of a pair of wood ducks.

A gallery of all Best of Show entries can be found at: www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast/sets/72157626449011502/

The 2011 Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation Message Contest winner was 17-year-old Allison Armstrong of Russellville, Ark., with her entry: “Spread Your Wings, create a splash, make a difference.”

The National Junior Duck Stamp Design Contest is the culmination of a year-long Junior Duck Stamp conservation curriculum used by K-12 educators across the nation. This year, more than 27,000 Junior Duck Stamp design entries were entered in state competitions held from February until mid-April.

The Junior Duck Stamp Contest winner receives a $5,000 cash award. The second place winner receives $3,000, the third-place winner receives $2,000, and the Conservation Message winner receives $500.

Judges for this year’s national Junior Duck Stamp Design Contest were Marvin Moriarty, regional director for the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Northeast Region; Clark Weaver, who won the Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest in 1994 and 1996; Valerie Peckham, conservation program manager at the Philadelphia Zoo; and Bill Stewart, conservation committee chair for the Delmarva Ornithological Society; and Steve Oliver, a Pennsylvania wildlife artist.

The First Day of Sale Ceremony for the 2011-2012 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps will be held on June 24 at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World at the Katy Mills Shopping Center in Katy, Texas. It is free and open to the public. Both the Federal and Junior Duck Stamp artists will be available to sign stamps at this event, and the U.S. Postal Service will have a special cancellation for collectors.

For more information and a complete list of images and contest results, please see the Junior Duck Stamp Program’s home page at www.fws.gov/juniorduck.

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

The finalist from Utah for the 2011 Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- On Friday, April 15, 2011, a panel of five judges will choose the winner of the 2011-2012 Federal Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest from Best-of-Show entries from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The event will be held at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, nine miles from the Philadelphia International Airport, off I-95.

On Friday, April 15, 2011, a panel of five judges will choose the winner of the 2011-2012 Federal Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest from Best-of-Show entries from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The event will be held at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, nine miles from the Philadelphia International Airport, off I-95. The Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program is a dynamic arts curriculum that teaches wetlands and waterfowl conservation to students in kindergarten through high school. The program incorporates scientific and wildlife management principles into a visual arts curriculum with participants completing an art project as their visual “term papers.” A winning conservation message written by a student will also be chosen.

The top three art contest winners and the conservation message winners receive cash prizes.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service sells the Junior Duck Stamp for $5 to stamp collectors, conservationists and the general public. The 2011-2012 stamp, featuring the design chosen at the contest, will go on sale on June 24, 2011. Proceeds from Junior Duck Stamp sales support environmental education efforts and awards for contest winners.

Click on www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast/ to view the Best-of-Show entries.

The Junior Duck Stamp Contest will be streamed live on the Web. To watch, go to www.fws.gov/juniorduck/.

For more information visit www.fws.gov/heinz/index.html

• WHAT: Judging and announcement of National Junior Duck Stamp Contest winner.
• WHEN: April 15, 2011 (Friday) 10 a.m. (EDT): Judging begins 11:30 a.m. (EDT): Winner announced
• WHERE: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge 8601 Lindbergh Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19153

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- GREENWOOD (April 6, 2011) – The results are in. Missouri artist Tom Morgan Crain’s painting featuring a lesser scaup will become the 2012 Delaware Duck Stamp. A painting of brook trout by Delaware artist George Bradford of Georgetown, will appear on the 2012 Delaware Trout Stamp. Mr. Bradford also won second place in the Trout Stamp contest for his painting of a brown trout.

The paintings won top honors in the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife’s annual stamp art competition, held Saturday, April 2 at the Ducks Unlimited Greenwings Event in Greenwood. This year’s event drew 33 entries for the 2012 Duck Stamp and 11 entries for the 2012 Trout Stamp. The 2012 Trout Stamp winner, George Bradford, receives $250 and retains the rights to reproduce and sell prints of the stamp.

The 2012 Duck Stamp winner, Tom Morgan Crain, who resides in Branson, Mo., will receive a $2,500 prize and 150 artist’s proofs of the limited edition print series of his first place duck entry. Crain has illustrated many best in shows for the National Wildlife Show in Kansas City. He is a three-time winner for the Missouri Duck Stamp and a past winner for the Indiana Trout Stamp and Delaware Trout Stamp. He was recently awarded the 2012 Ohio Duck Stamp. Crain has also illustrated for the Wild Turkey Federation, Missouri Show-me Chapter, Ducks Unlimited Hunters log, Cabela’s catalog cover, and many other covers.

Other winners included:

• 2012 Duck Stamp: Second place – Gerald Putt of Boiling Springs, Pa., pintails; Third place – Steve Oliver of Brookhaven, Pa., green-winged teal; Honorable mention: Richard Clifton of Milford, Del., pintail; George Lockwood of Santa Ynez, Calif., mallard; and Ron Kleiber of Erin, N.Y., bufflehead.
• 2012 Trout Stamp: Third place – Bart Gelesh of Oxford, Pa., brook trout; Honorable mention: Larry Smail of Kittanning, Pa., brown trout; Matt Patterson of New Ipswich, N.H., brook trout; and Donnie Hughes of Lexington, S.C., brook trout.

The Duck and Trout Stamp entries are on display now through Saturday, April 23 at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, 866 N. DuPont Highway, Dover, just south of Delaware State University. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information about the museum, please call 302-734-1618.

The 2012 Duck Stamp judges were Ducks Unlimited Chairman Clif Bakhsh, artist Paul Shertz, collector Dan Shevock, art professional Don Parks and biologist Charlii Miller.

The 2012 Trout Stamp judges were collector Dan Shevock, biologist Charlii Miller, artist Doug Gibson, Trout Unlimited member Bill O’Connor, and collector/biologist Roy Miller.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife, in partnership with Ducks Unlimited, began the duck stamp and print program in 1980 to raise funds for waterfowl conservation, including acquiring and improving the wetland habitats that are vital for the survival of migratory waterfowl. To date, more than $2.5 million has been raised.

The Division began requiring trout stamps in the 1950s. Trout stamp art was first used in 1977. The fees paid for Trout Stamps are used to purchase rainbow and brown trout from commercial hatcheries. The purchased trout are stocked in two downstate ponds and selected streams in northern New Castle County for Delaware’s spring trout season.

Residents 16 to 64 years of age are required to have a Delaware Trout Stamp, which costs $4.20. Residents ages 12 through 15 years old are required to have a Young Angler Trout Stamp, which costs $2.10. Non-residents 12 years of age and older are required to have a Non-Resident Trout Stamp, which costs $6.20.

Duck Stamps go on sale July 1 for $9 and are required when hunting migratory waterfowl in Delaware.

Duck and Trout Stamps are available at the Division of Fish and Wildlife offices in the Richardson and Robbins Building at 89 Kings Highway in Dover, at license agents throughout the state or online at www.fw.delaware.gov, which also includes a list of license agents. Collector stamps and prints are sold only at the Division’s administrative offices.

For more information, call the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 739-9911.

Ringed-Neck Ducks Painted By Jim Denney

Outdoor Alabama

Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- A pair of ringed-neck ducks painted by Jim Denney of Alexander City, Ala., is the winner of the 2011 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp Art Contest. The winning artwork will adorn the 2012-2013 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp.

The annual contest, sponsored by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF), is open to all resident Alabama artists only.

Denney previously won the 2007 contest with a painting of hooded mergansers. Contest rules prevented him from entering again until this year. Denney is flattered to have his artwork selected as the winner for the second time in as many entries. “It’s a big honor. There are some really good artists in this state,” he said.

This year’s first runner-up is a pair of white-fronted geese painted by Steven Burney of Town Creek, Ala. A Canada goose painted by Bill Stem of Madison, Ala., was selected as second runner-up, while a cinnamon teal painted by Neil Pope of Union Grove, Ala., was third runner-up. Fourth runner-up was by Everett Hatcher, who painted a blue-winged teal.

Entries were judged on suitability for reproduction as a stamp, originality, artistic composition, anatomical accuracy and general rendering. The designs were limited to living species of North American migratory ducks or geese, and winning species from the past three years – wood duck, northern pintail drake and American wigeon – were not eligible subjects for the 2011 contest.

The artwork was publicly displayed and judged by a panel of experts in the fields of art, ornithology, and conservation. Representing the field of art was Jonathan Matthews, a Montgomery artist who has studied in Norway and France. Representing the field of ornithology was Dagmar Thurmond, a wildlife biologist with the U.S. Forest Service. Representing the field of conservation was Frank Boyd, a wildlife biologist and state director of the USDA Wildlife Services office in Auburn.

The funds from stamp sales are used to procure and manage wetland habitats for waterfowl. All licensed waterfowl hunters are required to purchase state and federal migratory waterfowl stamps or to purchase the privilege. Like the federal stamps, state issued stamps are popular with collectors. The artwork competition for the Alabama Migratory Waterfowl Stamp design is held each year in February and is open to Alabama residents only.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR and the waterfowl stamp design competition visit www.outdooralabama.com.

Christina Stockton's American Wigeon

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

WICHITA, KS --(Ammoland.com)- For the third straight year, Christina Stockton, a 17-year old student at Stockton Academy in Wichita, claimed the state’s top prize in the annual Junior Duck Stamp program on Friday, March 18.

Stockton has been participating in the Junior Duck Stamp program for six years, and this is her third Best of Show. Her 2011 colored pencil entry, “This Side of Heaven,” features an American wigeon in intricate detail. Stockton used reference photos from professional photographers online at Birds in Focus, along with live birds observed on wetlands near her home.

Stockton’s entry will compete against Best of Show winners from 49 other states in the national competition on April 15 at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum (outside of Philadelphia, Pa.), the host of this year’s Junior Duck Stamp Contest.

The first place national winner receives a $5,000 scholarship and a free trip to Washington, D.C., and has their entry made into a Junior Duck Stamp that is sold nationwide. Proceeds from the sale of the $5 stamp fund conservation education and art scholarships.

Stockton’s wigeon bested 776 entries, including those of two of her sisters, who were also in the running for Best of Show. Entries were submitted in four age categories: Group 1 — K-3rd grade (287 entries); Group II — 4th-6th grade (293 entries); Group III — 7th-9th grade (101 entries); and Group IV — 10th-12th grade (95 entries).

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that the 2011 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest will be held at the agency’s National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, W. Va., on October 28 and 29.

This is the first time in the contest’s 61-year history that the event has been held in West Virginia.

The winning design chosen during the contest will be made into the 2012-2013 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (RW79), or “Duck Stamp,” the cornerstone of one of the world’s most successful conservation programs.

“Having this prestigious contest at the National Conservation Training Center provides a unique opportunity to build on the long history of wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation in our country,” said Jay Slack, Director of the Service’s training center. “Never has it been more important to conserve and restore wetland habitat, especially as we search for methods to minimize the effects of climate change, for waterfowl and the multitude of other species that depend on wetlands.”

The $15 Federal Duck Stamp is a vital tool for wetland conservation, with 98 cents of every dollar generated going to purchase or lease wetland habitat for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Since the stamp’s inception, sales have helped to acquire nearly six million acres of wildlife habitat at hundreds of refuges in nearly every state.

The Federal Duck Stamp art contest is the only art competition of its kind sponsored by the federal government. Since the first open contest was held in 1949, thousands of wildlife artists from throughout the nation have submitted art to the annual contest. While the winner receives no money from the federal government, the winning artist may benefit from the increased visibility and sale of prints and artwork.

The first Federal Duck Stamp was designed in 1934 by Iowa native and editorial cartoonist J.N. “Ding” Darling, who was the director of the Bureau of Biological Survey, forerunner to the Fish and Wildlife Service. It sold for $1. The stamp currently sells for $15, and more than 1.5 million people buy Duck Stamps annually.

Every waterfowl hunter age 16 or older is required to buy a Federal Duck Stamp. In addition, the stamps are highly sought after by collectors, conservationists and wildlife art aficionados. A current Federal Duck Stamp also provides free admission into any refuge open to the public.

There are 550 National Wildlife Refuges spread across all 50 states and U.S. territories, offering unparalleled wildlife oriented recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, bird watching and photography.

For information about the Federal Duck Stamp Program and about the 2011 Federal Duck Stamp Contest, go to: www.fws.gov/duckstamps. You can also check out the Federal Duck Stamp on Facebook: by going to www.facebook.com and searching “Federal Duck Stamp.”

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

The National Conservation Training Center is the home of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a leader in environmental sustainability. The center provides quality training tailored to support Service employees and conservation partners in the accomplishment of the agency’s mission. For more information about NCTC or our green practices, visit

http://nctc.fws.gov.

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Duck Stamp Society Issues Its Third Stamp

National Duck Stamp Collectors Society

Omaha, NE - -(Ammoland.com)- The National Duck Stamp Collectors Society, the only stamp society devoted to duck and conservation stamps, is pleased to announce the issuance of their third Society stamp.

The 2011 stamp features a painting of Barrow’s goldeneye’s by three-time federal duck stamp artist Joe Hautman. The painting is owned by Bob and Rita Dumaine, who, with the artists permission, donated the use to the Society for the stamp. Hautman is a life member of the NDSCS and serves on its Board of Governors.

The previous two issues also feature Hautman brothers artwork, the 2009 stamp pictured canvasbacks by Bob Hautman and the 2010 issue featured pintails by Jim Hautman. The previous issues are still available from the NDSCS.

Stamps are issued in sheets of 12, and are $5 each, artist signed singles are $10 each, full sheets are available for $50. Shipping and handling is $2 per order or $5 for a sheet order. Postal insurance is optional and extra. Orders can be placed on line at NDSCS.org or by mail: NDSCS Stamp, c/o Dr. Ira Cotton, 9939 Broadmoor Rd., Omaha, NE 68114-4926.

The National Duck Stamp Collectors Society was formed in 1992, founded by Bob Dumaine. The purpose of the NDSCS is to promote and encourage the study of migratory bird hunting and conservation stamps. For more information or to join the society, visit their web site: ndscs.org

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) has approved more than $3.5 million in land acquisitions at three National Wildlife Refuges.

The projects are supported by the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, which includes proceeds from the sales of the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, otherwise known as the Federal Duck Stamp. These approvals will add an estimated 1,300 acres of vital waterfowl habitat to the National Wildlife Refuge System.

“Wetlands provide many ecological, economic, and social benefits, such as habitat for fish, wildlife, and a variety of plants. They serve as nurseries for saltwater and freshwater fishes and shellfish of commercial and recreational importance,” said Secretary Salazar. “We value our nation’s Great Outdoors, and these additions to the National Wildlife Refuge System will help keep our wetlands safe and provide Americans astounding wildlife viewing opportunities.”

The following acquisitions were approved today:

• Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge Lauderdale and Tipton Counties, Tennessee – Acquisition of 625 acres for $1,880,000. The tract lies in the Hatchie River Basin, which contains a mix of bottomland hardwoods, grasslands, and flood-prone agricultural land. The Service plans to restore this tract to its former forested state and manage it for waterfowl and other migratory birds.
• Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Washington and Yamhill Counties, Oregon – Acquisition of 32 acres in fee title for $275,000. Various creeks seasonally flood this agricultural tract, making it extremely attractive to wintering and migrating waterfowl. The Service plans to restore habitat and manage the land for waterfowl, especially tundra swans.
• Tulare Basin Wildlife Management Area Kern and Tulare Counties, California – Acquisition of an easement of 656 acres for $1,425,700. These three perpetual conservation easements will add to the growing chain of easements in this area. These wetlands attract many waterfowl species, including northern pintails, northern shovelers, gadwalls, and green-winged teal.

The Commission also approved more than $29 million (pending FY2011 funding) in federal grants under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) for projects that will help to protect, restore and enhance more than 85,000 acres of wetlands and associated habitats across the United States and Mexico. If Congress approves FY2011 funding, these grants will support 26 projects in 17 states under NAWCA’s U.S. Standard Grants Program.

Projects include:

Ark-La-Miss Wetlands Conservation II, Arkansas, Louisiana – Clay, Desha, Prairie, White and Woodruff Counties, AR and Concordia and Tensas Parishes, LA This project builds on efforts to acquire, protect, restore and enhance wetland habitats in the Lower Mississippi Valley to offset the habitat losses of the previous century. Activities will include enhancement of ecologically diverse wetland habitats that will provide foraging, nesting, or roosting habitat for a number of waterfowl species and other wetland-dependent migratory birds. Partners will also improve or enhance other wetland values and functions by improving local and regional water quality, providing natural flood storage capacity and enhancing soil conservation by reducing sediment in precipitation runoff. Six of the nine project tracts are publicly owned and will be available for public use and access.

Coastal Marin Wetlands Restoration Project II, California – Marin County, California This project aims to protect – through acquisition and restoration – estuarine, riparian and floodplain areas, with a goal of eliminating habitat fragmentation and establishing a network of healthy wetlands and adjacent habitats in Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Partners will restore natural processes and transitional habitat to increase resilience to environmental change; augment forage for migratory birds; restore riparian corridors to benefit neotropical migrants, waterfowl, and endangered fish; and revitalize habitats for resident and wintering wildlife, including colonial waterbirds and threatened and endangered species. More than 400 species of wildlife use habitats within the project area for wintering, migration, and/or breeding habitat.

Partners in these projects will contribute an additional $70.5 million in matching funds. Grants are funded by annual Congressional appropriations; penalties and forfeitures levied under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; interest accrued on funds under the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act; and excise taxes paid on small engine fuels through the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Fund. For more information on these grant programs information is available on the web at: http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/GrantPrograms/SFR/SFR.htm http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/GrantPrograms/WR/WR.htm

The Commission also approved more than $3 million in NAWCA grants for nine projects in Mexico. These projects involve habitat acquisition, restoration, enhancement and creation.

Projects include:

Habitat Protection for Migratory Birds in Bahia Magdalena-Almejas Wetland Complex, Phase II – Bahia Magdalena-Almejas wetland corridor and Laguna de Hiray, Valle de Santo Domino, Municipality of Comondu, Baja California Sur, Mexico Partners in this project will acquire coastal wetlands in the Ejido Santo Domingo, and develop an ecological baseline of new parcels in Santo Domingo and in Laguna de Hiray for implementing long-term habitat conservation.

Protection and Management of Laguna Babicora, Chihuahua, Phase II – Mexican northern State of Chihuahua This project will help acquire more than 450,000 acres to become part of the Federal Natural Protected Area System. Partners will also protect critical wetland habitat through conservation easements, enhance habitat by reducing excess sedimentation, and conduct waterfowl monitoring and conservation planning.

These grants will be matched by more than $19.4 million in partner contributions and will directly affect more than 738,315 acres of wetlands and associated habitats in 13 Mexican states. In addition to habitat acquisition, restoration, enhancement and management activities, NAWCA projects in Mexico can also involve technical training, education, sustainable-use studies, or organizational infrastructure building needed to develop or strengthen wetlands conservation and management capabilities.

Final funding for all NAWCA projects will be dependent on the final Fiscal Year 2011 budget. In the absence of funding at the President’s request for FY2011, many of these projects will not be accomplished and conservation benefits will be lost.

Established by law in 1929, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has approved the acquisition of more than 43,000 acres of quality waterfowl habitat at national wildlife refuges and in the northern Midwest’s Prairie Pothole Region, all using MBCF dollars.

Since 1929, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has met several times each year to consider MBCF land purchases and, starting in 1989, to approve NAWCA grant proposals.

Commission members include: Chairman – Ken Salazar, Secretary of the Interior Thad Cochran, Senator from Mississippi Mark Pryor, Senator from Arkansas John D. Dingell, Congressman from Michigan Robert J. Wittman, Congressman from Virginia Tom Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture Lisa Jackson, Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency Secretary – A. Eric Alvarez, Chief, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service For more information about the Commission visit http://www.fws.gov/refuges/realty/mbcc.html.

Passed in 1989, NAWCA provides matching grants to organizations and individuals who have developed partnerships to carry out wetlands conservation projects in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Act was passed in part to support activities under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, an international agreement that provides a strategy for the long-term protection of wetlands and associated upland habitats needed by waterfowl and other migratory birds in North America. More information about NAWCA grant programs and projects approved today is available on the Web at: http://www.fws.gov/birdhabitat/Grants/NAWCA/Standard/index.shtm.

Under NAWCA, some 4,440 partners involved in more than 2,000 projects have received more than $1.08 billion in grants. They have contributed another $2.24 billion in matching funds to affect 25.9 million acres of habitat and $1.2 billion in non-matching funds to affect 234,790 acres of habitat.

Additional information about the history of the ongoing efforts to conserve North America’s wetlands and waterfowl can be found at FLYways.us. The website provides waterfowl enthusiasts, biologists and agency administrators with the most up-to-date waterfowl habitat and waterfowl population information.

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

This Mallard pair was the winning print by Tom Morgan Crain of Branson, Missouri

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The artwork of Tom Morgan Crain of Branson, Missouri, won first place in this year’s Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp Design Competition, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Crain’s painting will appear on the Ohio wetlands habitat stamp issued in fall 2012.

The winning entry was selected from a field of 20 original paintings submitted by artists from 12 states including seven entries from Ohio. The competition was held on February 19 at the Ohio Ducks Unlimited annual banquet in Sandusky.

“I haven’t painted a mallard in over six years, but I just had a feeling that that species might do well in Ohio,” said Crain.

Second place honors go to Douglas Walpus from Tennessee with his painting of snow geese and the third place entry was by Phillip Brevick from Ohio with his painting of mallards.

Last year’s winner, Ohioan Joel Rogers, will see his painting of a red-breasted merganser appear on the 2011 wetlands habitat stamp.

Approximately 25,000 Ohio wetland habitat stamps were purchased last year, according to the Division of Wildlife. Proceeds from stamp sales help fund vital wetland habitat restoration projects in Ohio. Such habitats are important to many resident wildlife species including state-endangered trumpeter swans, wetland birds, amphibians and numerous migratory species.

The judges for this year’s event included Sharon Cummings, a professional wildlife photographer; Sandy Burris, the president of Friends of Magee Marsh; co-publisher of Birdwatcher’s Digest Andy Thompson; executive director of the Black Swamp Bird Observatory Kim Kaufman; and John Simpson, the manager of Winous Point Shooting Club. Rebecca Hinkle, who is employed at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, was the alternate judge.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

2011 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The gift of conservation has never been easier or closer to home, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Impress the wildlife enthusiasts in your life with an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp this holiday season.

When you purchase this attractive “made in Ohio” gift, $14 of each $15 stamp sold supports:

• habitat restoration, land purchases and conservation easements;
• keeping common species common;
• endangered and threatened native species;
• wildlife and habitat research projects; and
• educational product for students and wildlife enthusiasts, such as our popular field guides and CDs.

“The diversity of native plants and animals found in Ohio are part of the natural heritage that enriches all of our lives,” said Division of Wildlife Chief David M. Graham. “Giving an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp – or buying one for yourself – is another way to help ensure the future of our state’s wildlife and the habitat they call home.”

Each Legacy packet includes a collectible stamp, an attractive commemorative card suitable for framing and a window cling for the car or truck. You can buy the stamp online at wildohio.com or by mail.

Do something wild this holiday season, invest in an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and help “Keep the Wild in Ohio.” Learn more at wildohiostamp.com.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Enter The 2011 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp Art Contest

Outdoor Alabama

Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- Alabama artists are invited to enter the 2011 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp art contest, which opens January 1, 2011.

The winning artwork will be used as the design of the 2012-2013 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp, which is required to be purchased when hunting migratory waterfowl. Entries will be accepted from Jan. 1 – Feb. 15, 2011.

The competition is open to resident Alabama artists only. All eligible entries will be on display February 25, 2011, at the Richard Beard Building, 1445 Federal Dr., Montgomery, Ala., 36107.

Only original horizontal artworks depicting a species of North American migratory duck or goose will be eligible. The wood duck, pintail, and American wigeon — depicted in the winning artwork of three previous year’s contests — are not eligible as the subject for the 2012-2013 Waterfowl Stamp.

The judging criteria will emphasize uncluttered design suitable for printing as a stamp, anatomical accuracy of the illustrated species, and artistic rendering. Entries may be drawn or painted in any medium. Entries cannot exceed 9 by 12 inches (15 by 18 inches matted).

About:
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com .

Vote Online For 2011-12 Oklahoma Waterfowl Stamp

Sam Houston Duck Co.

Houston, TX --(Ammoland.com)- Every year wildlife artists from across the nation submit their rendition of a specified waterfowl species to the Wildlife Department’s duck stamp design contest.

In recent years the Wildlife Department has relied on input from the public to help determine the winner, whose work is printed on the Oklahoma waterfowl stamp the following year. This year, artwork was centered on the blue-winged teal which can be found near Oklahoma’s wetlands during early fall and spring.

“In recent years, people who wanted to vote on the next duck stamp design had to travel somewhere to see the entries, but technology is allowing us to make voting possible from home or even on the go for those folks with laptops or smart phones,” said Micah Holmes, information and education supervisor for the Wildlife Department.

Duck stamp sales help finance many projects that benefit ducks and geese. Since the duck stamp program began in 1980, thousands of acres of waterfowl habitat have been created through duck stamp revenues.

Along with public input, entries will be judged on anatomical accuracy, artistic composition and suitability for printing. The winning artist will receive a purchase award of $1,200 provided by NatureWorks, a Tulsa-based conservation organization. Additionally, the winner and three honorable mentions will appear in a future issue of Outdoor Oklahoma magazine.

“This is a good chance for duck hunters to weigh in on their favorite artwork,” Holmes said. “Afterall, it’s their duck season and their waterfowl stamp. They should have a say in what artwork is featured, and they should take the opportunity to give their input.”

A selection of waterfowl stamp art from previous years is currently on display in the lobby of the Wildlife Department headquarters located at 1801 N. Lincoln, in Oklahoma City.

Vote For Your Favorite Duck Stamp Here

Prints of previous winning waterfowl artwork can be purchased at wildlifedepartment.com/oklahomastampprogram.htm .

More information about the annual duck stamp design contest, including official rules, is available online at wildlifedepartment.com

About:
Sam Houston Duck Co. We stock a complete line of supplies, albums, mounts, hinges, tongs, reference books as well as thousands of stockbooks with U.S. and worldwide stamps. A great selection of topicals and new issues are also available. Our knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist you with all of your collecting needs. Visit: www.shduck.com

Clifton Wins Michigan Duck Stamp Contest

Sam Houston Duck Co.

Houston, TX --(Ammoland.com)- It’s been a good year for duck stamp artist Richard Clifton. Since October 2009, the wildlife artist has won three state duck stamp prizes, making this year a bright spot in an already illustrious career.

“It’s still a hoot to win,” he said. “I don’t enter to get fourth.”

His latest victory, Michigan, was won with a lone drake mallard. Elegant and understated, the composition is less ambitious than the descending pair of pintail ducks that won him Colorado in March. In all fairness, he found out about the contest two days before the deadline.

Making a tight squeeze even tighter, Clifton was helping his wife, Terri, prepare for an annual 5K race she hosts as director of the Chad Clifton Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises money for wounded soldiers.

Terri told him to paint. “You can’t wait for optimum conditions to succeed,” she said.

He started at 6 a.m., Thursday, July 22, cutting and prepping the board. As the gesso dried, he drove to Rehoboth Art & Framing and ordered his matting. By Friday afternoon, the painting was on its way to the Michigan Duck Hunter’s Association in Midland, Mich.

Two weeks later, he sat in his gallery, knowing they’d be judging the paintings that evening, waiting for a call. When none came, he shrugged it off and returned to the house to watch TV. Terri came home a few hours later. Checking her email, she said to Clifton: “You didn’t tell me you’d won Michigan.”

“I didn’t know,” he said. The call had come minutes after he went inside.

Though he’s been painting for more than three decades, he never gets tired of winning, he said.

“Within the last year, I’ve won three, finished second in one [North Carolina] and got two top fives [Delaware, Oklahoma],” he said. “If you were a race car driver, you’d be having a pretty good year.”

He’s hoping to extend his good fortunes. A reference photo was pinned to a lamp above his easel for this year’s Oklahoma contest, which he last won in the early ’90s. His reputation as a painter is well established by now – especially after he won the Federal Duck Stamp prize in 2007 – but Clifton isn’t one to rest on his laurels. Every year brings a new crop of hungry young artists, he said, several of whom are very good.

“It only takes one to beat you,” he said. “But it gets tougher when there are several good ones.”

The fresh competition only fuels him, he said; it makes him hungrier. Clifton said he’ll be eligible to enter the Federal Duck Stamp Contest once again in 2011. He grinned at the prospect.

About:
Sam Houston Duck Co. We stock a complete line of supplies, albums, mounts, hinges, tongs, reference books as well as thousands of stockbooks with U.S. and worldwide stamps. A great selection of topicals and new issues are also available. Our knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist you with all of your collecting needs. Visit: www.shduck.com

Sam Houston Duck Co.

Houston, TX --(Ammoland.com)- The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection has announced that the hunting privileges associated with the Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp (duck stamp) are changing to a calendar year, January 1 through December 31.

To facilitate this change, for the remainder of calendar year 2010 and 2011, the DEP will issue a 2010-2011 Duck Stamp with privileges that begin on July 1, 2010 and end on December 31, 2011.

Starting in 2012, duck hunting privileges will be for a calendar year, January 1 through December 31. This change is due to legislation passed in April 2010 by the Connecticut State Legislature. The legislation also increased the cost of the Duck Stamp to $13.

The Migratory Bird Conservation Fund also has been recreated, meaning that all money collected from the sale of stamps will once again go directly toward wetland conservation projects and improvement of waterfowl hunting access in Connecticut.

Connecticut Duck Stamp 2010-2011

Over $1.1 million has been raised and spent on wetland habitat conservation in Connecticut since 1993, when the Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp Program was initiated. These funds have been provided, in large part, by hunters. A substantial portion of the $1.1 million also was raised through sales to Duck Stamp collectors and to collectors of artistic prints from 1993 to 2002 when the production and sale of prints was discontinued.

Hunters 16 years of age or older are required to purchase a Connecticut Duck Stamp every year if they plan to hunt waterfowl in Connecticut. However, anyone who has an interest in wetland and waterfowl conservation can purchase and collect stamps. The stamps feature a different waterfowl species each year.

The 2010-2011 stamp features an illustration of the common goldeneye by Clint Herdman, a wildlife artist from Beacon Falls, Connecticut. Mr. Herdman is an avid conservationist and the current Vice President of the Connecticut Waterfowlers Association. He and several other sportsmen worked with the State Legislature to help get the Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Fund recreated.

About:
Sam Houston Duck Co. We stock a complete line of supplies, albums, mounts, hinges, tongs, reference books as well as thousands of stockbooks with U.S. and worldwide stamps. A great selection of topicals and new issues are also available. Our knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist you with all of your collecting needs. Visit: www.shduck.com

Arkansas Tops 2009 Duck Stamp Poll

National Duck Stamp Collectors Society

MCCLUSKY, N.D. --(Ammoland.com)- National Duck Stamp Collectors Society President Ira Cotton has announced the results of the annual Duck Tracks Duck stamp poll.

Each years the society’s journal illustrates all the previous year’s state Duck stamps and asks its knowledgeable members to vote for the best and worst designs and for their favorite Duck stamp. The annual poll has been a Duck Tracks feature since 1995.

In the 2009 Duck Stamp Poll, the Arkansas stamp was the clear winner, capturing both the Best Design and Favorite Stamp categories. The $7 resident and $20 nonresident stamp, designed by Joe Hautman, shows a pair of hooded mergansers.

The 2009 contest had 37 eligible entries, although North Dakota had a text stamp, Hawaii (quail) and Wyoming (owl) illustrated non-duck species and Massachusetts, as always, featured a duck decoy.

In the Best Design category, Arkansas edged out Illinois (common goldeneyes by Abraham Hunter) with Pennsylvania (hooded mergansers by Gerald Putt) a distant third.

In the Favorite Stamp category, Arkansas again won by a slim margin, this time beating out Louisiana (Chesapeake Bay retriever and mallards by Anthony Padgett) and North Carolina (Wigeon Trio by Gerald Putt).

The North Dakota text stamp was the clear choice in the Worst Design category followed by Kentucky and Oregon.

The quarterly Duck Tracks journal is available with NDSCS membership, which is only $20 per year. For more information contact: NDSCS Secretary Tony Monico, POB 43, Harleysville, PA 19438.

About:
National Duck Stamp Collectors Society: The primary purpose of the National Duck Stamp Collectors Society (NDSCS) is to promote and encourage the collecting and study of migratory waterfowl hunting and conservation stamps. The NDSCS is the only stamp collecting society devoted exclusively to duck stamps.

75th Anniversary Federal Duck Stamp Print available At Bass Pro

Bass Pro Shops

Hanover, MD --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host the First Day of Sale for the 2010-2011 Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp on June 25 at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, located at Arundel Mills in Hanover, Maryland. Doors open at 9:00am, and the ceremony will begin at 10:00am. The event is free and open to the public.

The 2010-2011 Federal Duck Stamp features an American Widgeon painted by wildlife artist Robert Bealle, of Waldorf Maryland. Last fall a panel of judges chose Bealle’s art to grace the new Duck Stamp from among 224 paintings at the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest, held at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Refuge in Laurel, Maryland.

Martin MacDonald, Bass Pro Shops Director of Conservation, will CO-MC the event with Rowan Gould, acting Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Since 1934 the sales of Federal Duck Stamps have generated more than $750 million, which has been used to help purchase or lease over 5.3 million acres of waterfowl habitat in the U.S. These lands are now protected in the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s National Wildlife Refuge System

Waterfowl are not the only wildlife to benefit from the sale of Federal Duck Stamps. Numerous other bird, mammal, fish, reptile, and amphibian species that rely on wetland habitats have prospered. Further, an estimated one-third of the Nation’s endangered and threatened species find food or shelter in refuges established using Federal Duck Stamp funds.

People, too, have benefited from the Federal Duck Stamp Program. Hunters have places to enjoy their hunting heritage and other outdoor enthusiasts have places to hike, watch birds, and visit. Moreover, the protected wetlands help purify water supplies, store flood water, reduce soil erosion and sedimentation, and provide spawning areas for fish important to sport and commercial fishermen.

Bass Pro Shops has been a leader in conservation efforts, a seen by their Conservation Wall in each store.

About Bass Pro Shops Group:
Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 109 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations.
For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com. To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(AmmoLand.com)- Wildlife art enthusiasts, stamp and print collectors, waterfowl hunters, birdwatchers and wetland conservationists will gather beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 24 at the Delaware Ducks Unlimited Greenwings’ Event at Owens Station in Greenwood for the judging of Delaware’s annual Duck Stamp and Trout Stamp contests.

Sponsored by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife in partnership with Delaware Ducks Unlimited, the annual competitions draw entries by renowned and emerging artists from across the country. A panel of judges consisting of an artist, a waterfowl collector, an art teacher/professor, a biologist and the chair of Delaware Ducks Unlimited will select Best of Show winners for the 2011 Delaware Duck Stamp and the 2011 Delaware Trout Stamp. Judges will base their decisions on originality, artistic composition, anatomical accuracy and suitability for reproduction as a stamp and print.

Delaware’s 2011 waterfowl stamp will mark the 31st anniversary of the contest, which began in 1980 to raise funds for waterfowl conservation, including acquiring and improving the wetland habitats that are vital for the survival of migratory waterfowl. To date, more than $2.5 million has been raised. The artwork chosen for the 2011 stamp will be third in a new series which must include one or more Delaware native species as the dominant feature and may include any other objects including man-made objects.

The 2010 Junior Duck Stamp winners also will be unveiled at the event. The competition provides an opportunity for students throughout Delaware to participate in a national art competition keyed to native waterfowl and wetland values. Students learn hands-on activities in waterfowl, wetland and habitat education and conservation while completing duck stamp art entries. Artwork is judged in K-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12 grade categories, with various prizes. The Best of Show will move on to the National Federal Junior Duck Stamp Competition.

Artists from across the nation will submit paintings of rainbow, brown or brook trout for the competition to choose the illustration for the 2011 Delaware Trout Stamp, which must be displayed by all trout anglers. Some 6,500 trout anglers and stamp collectors support this program annually, generating approximately $25,000 in annual revenues to stock trout in six northern New Castle County streams, Tidbury Pond in Kent County and Newton Pond in Sussex County.

For more information on the Delaware Duck Stamp or Trout Stamp programs, please contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 302-739-9911. For information on the Junior Duck Stamp Program, please contact Trina Cale-Rosario at 302-735-8656, or visit www.fw.delaware.gov.

State of California

Sacramento, CA --(AmmoLand.com)- Senator Tom Harman (R-Huntington Beach) vowing to keep up the fight, re-introduced legislation today that seeks to ensure that hunting license tag and stamp funds benefit game species and their habitats.

Senate Bill 1058 will require that, before any hunting monies can be expended, hunting-related organizations would have an opportunity to review proposed projects and provide comment to the Department of Fish and Game. Not only will this create much-needed transparency, it will allow for projects to be modified to better fit the needs of game species and hunters.

“As an avid outdoorsman, I feel pretty strongly that money rightly belonging to species preservation be spent accordingly,” said Harman. “We got so close last year to fixing this problem that I just couldn’t give up the fight. People pay those fees with the expectation that the money goes where it’s supposed to go – not that the fees are sucked up by a bureaucracy for office expenses.”

Current law, particularly as it relates to bear and deer tag monies, does not always require that the monies be used for a dedicated purpose. Unfortunately, these funds have been continuously used for non-game purposes.

“This bill will ensure transparency in the spending of these funds,” said Harman. “That is something we should have in all government spending – clarity – so people know where the dollars go.”

SB 1058, sponsored by the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA), a sportsmen’s advocacy coalition of over 30 wildlife conservation and hunting organizations, will address the funding issue and add transparency as to how the tag and stamp fees are utilized.

“Hunters are proud of their key role in funding many of the Department of Fish and Game’s conservation activities through the purchase of hunting license stamps and tags,” stated Mark Hennelly, Vice President of COHA. “SB 1058 will help ensure that those important dollars are used as efficiently and effectively as possible to benefit game species and their habitats.”

SB 1058 is a reintroduction of SB 589 which passed out of the legislature with bipartisan support and was unfortunately vetoed by the Governor.

“This bill went all the way to the Governor’s desk last year. It had a lot of support and I am committed to seeing it signed into law,” said Harman. “I am working with the Governor’s office to address their concerns.”

The first hearing on SB 1058 will likely be in early April in the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee.

California Outdoor Heritage Alliance

Sacramento, CA --(AmmoLand.com)- Senator Tom Harman (R-Orange) has introduced SB 1058, COHA-sponsored state legislation which would prevent big game tag and upland bird stamp monies from being misused for non-game or non-hunting purposes.

A similar COHA-sponsored bill, SB 589, was vetoed by the Governor last year.

SB 1058 would mandate that all deer, elk, wild pig, antelope, bighorn sheep and bear tag revenues and upland game bird stamp monies be used to benefit those particular species, their habitats, and the users that generate them. It would also provide much-needed opportunity for sportsman’s groups to review and provide comment on proposed expenditures of the funds.

Beginning in the 1980s, a portion of hunting license tag/stamp monies were redirected away from game species conservation to other purposes. Loopholes in state law also currently allow for a significant portion of deer tag monies and all bear tag monies to be used for non-game purposes, while a large percentage of pig tag funds have also remained unspent or have been redirected in recent years.

According to data from 2006, only 62% of deer tag revenue was actually used for deer-related projects. Similarly, only 64% of wild pig tag money and 48% of wild sheep auction tag money was used for related conservation work.

SB 1058 also consolidates various existing big game species fiscal accounts into a single account, which improves efficiencies in the use of the monies and gives the Department of Fish and Game greater flexibility to benefit all big game species.

A separate provision of SB 1058 elevates hunting and fishing above other recreational uses when the Fish and Game Commission determines which uses are appropriate for DFG’s Wildlife Management Areas.

“California sportsmen and women expect their license dollars to go to the wildlife management and conservation programs they were intended for,” said Evan Heusinkveld, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA) director of state services. “These funds should not be spent to fix roads or patch holes in the state budget.”

SB 1058 will be heard in the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee in early April. Please contact members of the Committee and urge their strong support of this much needed measure. For Legislator contact information and a sample support letter, click here.

To view Senator Harman’s press release announcing the reintroduction of the legislation, click here.

2009-2010 Federal Duck Stamp

United States Postal Service

America’s wetlands were drying up or being drained and waterfowl population numbers plummeted below 27 million nationwide, a record low. Alarmed waterfowl hunters and other conservationists knew there was no time to waste.

Pulitzer-prize winning editorial cartoonist, hunter, passionate wildlife conservationist, and visionary, Darling unhesitatingly put his considerable influence and stature to good use, taking on the important challenge of convincing Congress to pass legislation designed to help protect waterfowl habitat. In 1934, thanks to his unstinting efforts and strong support from waterfowl hunters, Congress passed the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act and, on March 16, 1934, President Roosevelt signed it into law.

As Biological Survey Chief, Darling created one of America’s most successful conservation programs, the Federal Duck Stamp Program. Ever the artist, he illustrated his vision for the new Duck Stamp, drawing a pair of mallards landing in a wetland. This picture graced the very first Federal Duck Stamp.

On August 14, 1934, Darling bought the first stamp from the U.S. Postmaster General, paying $1.00. First year sales raised $635,000 for wetland conservation; since then thanks to collectors, hunters and conservationists, Duck Stamp sales have raised $700 million which has been used to buy 5 million acres of wetlands for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Besides conserving wetlands, Darling’s Duck Stamp Program has given this country another gift—one of the world’s foremost waterfowl art competitions. Until 1949, waterfowl artists were invited to submit entries. A committee of waterfowl experts privately judged the entries and selected the winning design. In 1949, for the first time, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service held a public contest, opening up the competition. In October 2007, the Federal Duck Stamp Contest was held in Darling’s beloved Sanibel, Florida, and a distinguished jury panel selected the design for the 75th Federal Duck Stamp, a pair of pintail ducks by Minnesota artist Joseph Hautman.

Jr. Duck Wood Duck 2009-2010

Red-Breasted Merganser By Joel Rogers

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(AmmoLand.com)- The artwork of a red-breasted merganser by Hudson resident Joel Rogers won first place in this year’s Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp Design Competition, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. Joel Rogers’ painting will appear on the Ohio wetlands habitat stamp issued in the fall of 2011.

The winning entry was selected from a field of 23 original paintings submitted by artists from 12 states, including 11 entries from Ohio. The competition was held on February 20 at the Ohio Ducks Unlimited annual banquet in Sandusky.

“I’ve always thought that the red-breasted merganser was an unusual type of waterfowl and interesting to observe.” said Rogers.

Mike Brown of Georgia took second place in this year’s state competition for his rendering of an American widgeon; third place went to Douglas Walpus of Tennessee for his entry of hooded mergansers. Four other Ohio artists placed in the top 10 in this year’s competition.

Last year’s winner, North Dakota resident Jeffery Hoff, will see his painting of ruddy ducks appear on the 2010 wetlands habitat stamp.

Approximately 25,000 Ohio wetland habitat stamps were purchased last year, according to the Division of Wildlife. Proceeds from stamp sales help fund vital wetland habitat restoration projects in Ohio. Such habitats are important to many resident wildlife species including state-endangered trumpeter swans, wetland birds, amphibians and numerous migratory species.

The judges for this year’s event included Mona Rutger of Back to the Wild Wildlife Rehabilitation Center; Robert Sweeney, wetlands conservationist; Dawn Zinc of Zinc Calls; Jeff Basting, illustrator with the Toledo Blade, and Larry Mixon, Ohio Wildlife Council member.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

LITTLE ROCK, AR –-(AmmoLand.com)- Reports from around the state point to hit-or-miss duck hunting for many Arkansas waterfowlers. Good hunting reports have been matched by poor reports, with duck numbers and hunting success scattered.

Field reports indicate a movement of ducks into the state following last week’s frigid weather across the central and northern U.S., but ducks appear to be concentrated in a few areas and not widespread across much of the state. While most ducks have left the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa and northern Missouri, there still appear to be many ducks in central Missouri and other mid-latitude states.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission biologists are flying aerial waterfowl surveys this week, and current waterfowl population estimates for Arkansas should be available next week.

Weather conditions should be favorable for hunters over the next week, with high temperatures ranging from the lower 50s Thursday through the lower 40s over the weekend. Low temperatures are predicted to hover around the freezing mark or below it for the next several days.

To assist hunters in tracking ducks, AGFC has created several Web links with maps and information about recent waterfowl movements and aerial survey reports.

For a list of links, visit http://www.agfc.com/hunting/huntingseasons/waterfowl-migratory-birds/waterfowl-locations.aspx.

This waterfowl report provides capsule information from agency staff in all corners of Arkansas and is updated each Wednesday throughout waterfowl season.

Information on river levels can be found at: http://www.srh.noaa.gov/lmrfc/ or http://water.usgs.gov/realtime.html. Sunrise/sunset tables are available at: http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/RS_OneDay.html and in the Arkansas Waterfowl Regulations Guide.

New Jersey Brandt Duck Stamp

National Duck Stamp Collectors Society

Trenton, NJ --(AmmoLand.com)- The state Division of Fish and Wildlife has discontinued the sale of paper waterfowl stamps and prints, a decision that makes former state Division of Fish and Game Director George Howard is just a little melancholy.

Howard, currently the conservation director for the state Federation of Sportsmens Clubs, said selling the beautiful paper stamps and prints helped the division preserve a lot of waterfowl habitat during the past quarter century.

“I own quite a few myself,” said Howard. “It was a very good program.”

The stamps and artwork were hugely popular for many years but recently sales declined. This year, waterfowl hunters are required to buy “certifications” instead of paper stamps. The certifications, available from hunting license agents or on the division’s website, cost the same as did the duck stamps: $5 for residents and $10 for nonresidents. “The artwork and the paper stamp were discontinued as cost saving measures,” explained the division in a statement announcing the change.

The division is still selling prints of the 2008 duck stamp featuring canvasback ducks painted by Rob Leslie Duck stamps and collectible prints depicted ducks, hunting dogs and other waterfowl-related images painted by the nation’s best outdoors artists. They were first sold in New Jersey in 1984 and their sales combined raised about $4.2 million. The money was used to preserve more than 13,000 acres of prime waterfowl habitat, according to the division.

Howard noted that money from the sale of the waterfowl certifications will still be earmarked for habitat preservation. As for the future value of the collector prints, Howard is optimistic but uncertain.

“They still have value,” he said, noting that one print of particular interest depicts an American brant but has “brant” mistakenly spelled “brandt.”

For more information on the state waterfowl stamps, including how to purchase the final collector stamps and prints, visit njfishandwildlife.com/prod_stamps.htm.  Orders must be postmarked by December 31, 2009.

Editors note: And why does our headline read “foolishly?” Because New Jersey has chosen to throw away the collector dollar. Each duck stamp collector who purchased a set of New Jersey stamps contributed an additional $15 to the waterfowl fund that the state will now not receive. Collectors who also collect hunter-type stamps doubled that number, contributing $30 to the fund without ever setting foot in a marsh.

If you wish to comment to the state, you can send an email to: njfishandwildlife@dep.state.nj.us.

About:
National Duck Stamp Collectors Society: The primary purpose of the National Duck Stamp Collectors Society (NDSCS) is to promote and encourage the collecting and study of migratory waterfowl hunting and conservation stamps. The NDSCS is the only stamp collecting society devoted exclusively to duck stamps

Robert Steiner Pintail Duck Stamp

Outdoor Alabama

Alabama --(AmmoLand.com Firearms News)-Alabama artists can celebrate the New Year by entering the 2009 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp art contest, which opens January 1, 2010.

According to Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Director M. N. Pugh, the winning artwork will be used as the design of the 2011-2012 Alabama Waterfowl Stamp.

The competition is open to resident Alabama artists only. Entries will be accepted from January 1 until the February 16 contest deadline.

Display of all entries, to which the public will be invited, will be held February 26, 2009, at the Richard Beard Building in Montgomery.

Following the showing, three judges from the fields of art, ornithology and wildlife conservation will select the winning waterfowl art.

Contest coordinator David C. Hayden, Assistant Chief of the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries’ Wildlife Section, advises artists that entries must not exceed 9 by 12 inches (15 by 18 inches matted).

Only original horizontal artworks depicting a species of North American migratory duck or goose will be eligible. The Hooded Merganser, Wood Duck and Pintail—depicted in the winning artwork of three previous year’s contests—are not eligible as the subject for the 2011-2012 Waterfowl Stamp.

Hayden says judging criteria will emphasize uncluttered design suitable for printing as a stamp, anatomical accuracy of the illustrated species, and artistic rendering. Close attention must be given to tone and detail, since those aspects are prerequisites for printing artwork as a stamp. Wing and feather construction must be particularly well defined. Entrants may submit a painting or drawing; past contest entries have included works in oil, watercolor, acrylic and mixed media, all of which are eligible.

For contest information and entry forms, contact David Hayden, Alabama Wildlife and Fisheries Division, 64 North Union Street, Room 584, Montgomery, Alabama 36130 (334/242-3469).

National Duck Stamp Collectors Society Stamp

National Duck Stamp Collectors Society

Harleysville, PA --(AmmoLand.com)-Just in time for duck season, the National Duck Stamp Collectors Society is pleased to announce the issuance of their first Society stamp. The NDSCS is the only stamp society devoted to duck and conservation issues.

The stamp features a canvasback drake and hen, painted by two-time federal duck stamp artist Robert Hautman. The painting is owned by Bob and Rita Dumaine of Houston, Texas, who, with the artist’s permission, donated the use to the Society for its initial stamp issue.

Stamps are issued in sheets of 12, with a $5 face value. Full sheets are available for $50 and a purchase of five sheets or more will receive a 30% discount. Shipping and handling is $2 per order or $5 for a sheet order. Postal insurance is optional and extra. Orders should be sent to: NDSCS Stamp, c/o Dr. Ira Cotton, 9939 Broadmoor Rd., Omaha, NE 68114-4926. Orders may also be placed via the Society web site — www.ndscs.org — using PayPal for payment.

The National Duck Stamp Collectors Society was formed in 1992, founded by Bob Dumaine. The purpose of the NDSCS is to promote and encourage the study of migratory bird hunting and conservation stamps. The Society has a web site filled with duck stamp information: www.ndscs.org.

Membership in the Society is available for $20 a year and includes a subscription to the Society’s award-winning newsletter, Duck Tracks. Dues are tax deductible. Join by using the on line application at www.ndscs.org or write for more information and a sample copy of the newsletter: NDSCS, P.O. Box 43, Harleysville, PA 19438.

About:
National Duck Stamp Collectors Society: The primary purpose of the National Duck Stamp Collectors Society (NDSCS) is to promote and encourage the collecting and study of migratory waterfowl hunting and conservation stamps. The NDSCS is the only stamp collecting society devoted exclusively to duck stamps

2009-2010 Federal Duck Stamp

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

LITTLE ROCK, AR –-(AmmoLand.com)- In an effort to make federal duck stamp purchasing more convenient, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is beginning the third and final year of a pilot program to test electronic federal waterfowl stamps.

The AGFC, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is testing the pilot program to make it simpler for hunters, birdwatchers and stamp collectors to buy Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps, commonly known as duck stamps.

The pilot program allows the AGFC along with fish and wildlife agencies in the states of Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Texas and Wisconsin, to sell stamps electronically through their individual automated licensing systems providing proof of purchase. In Arkansas, the program has been very successful. In its first year, Arkansas sold almost 10,000 of the stamps. That number jumped to almost 50,000 electronic federal stamps in 2008 and the number is expected to go even higher this year.

This proof of purchase – a unique code given to the purchaser instantly, will be accepted as evidence of the federal duck stamp purchase for 45 days. This will give the purchaser – time enough for the physical stamp to arrive in the mail. Duck Stamp purchasers will now be able to buy an electronic duck stamp from Arkansas and the other eight states’ retail licensing locations or by telephone or by their website.

Every waterfowl hunter over the age of 16 is required to buy a federal duck stamp in order to hunt waterfowl. In addition, federal duck stamps provide free entry into any national wildlife refuge in the country that charges an entrance fee. The electronic duck stamps are $2 higher in cost than the over-the-counter version.

The electronic proof of purchase will fulfill the requirement for waterfowl hunters to possess the stamp nationwide and allow visitors to National Wildlife Refuges gain free access. After the 45 days, the proof of purchase will expire and the purchasers must possess the paper stamp to receive its full benefit.

The federal duck stamp is currently available at many major sporting good stores selling hunting and fishing licenses, select post offices and online through the U.S. Postal Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s duck stamp fulfillment center.

The Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2005 directed the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with state management agencies, to conduct a three-year pilot program under which up to 15 states could issue electronic migratory bird hunting and conservation stamps. The pilot program will allow the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to evaluate the program and make adjustments or assess other distribution options to better serve stamp buyers.

New Jersey Fish and Game

Trenton, NJ --(AmmoLand.com)- The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is reminding hunters that the ‘paper’ state waterfowl (duck) stamp has been discontinued. Waterfowl hunters 16 years and older are still required to purchase a state waterfowl stamp, which is now a “certification” rather than a paper stamp.

The certifications are available from license agents or from the Division’s online license page at http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/als/websalesintro.htm where they can be printed on a home computer. The price of the certification remains $5 for residents and $10 for nonresidents.

The artwork and the paper stamp were discontinued as cost saving measures. Artwork and paper stamps have been discontinued in nearly half of the states that require duck stamps. Waterfowl stamp fees paid by hunters are dedicated for the acquisition, protection and improvement of waterfowl habitat. Since 1984, the sale of New Jersey waterfowl stamps and prints has raised more than $4,250,000. To date, over 13,000 acres have been secured for waterfowl though donations of land and funds from waterfowl stamp fees.

The Waterfowl Advisory Committee ( http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/councils.htm#waterfowl ) oversees the New Jersey duck stamp program. This 9-member committee was established by the Waterfowl Stamp Act of 1984.

For more information on the state waterfowl stamps, including how to purchase the final (2008) Collector Stamps and Prints, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/prod_stamps.htm on the division’s website. Orders must be postmarked by December 31, 2009.

South Dakota Fish, Game & Parks

WATERTOWN, S.D. --(AmmoLand.com)- With the early Canada goose season approaching, Game, Fish and Parks Department officials are predicting excellent hunting throughout eastern South Dakota.

“Hunters should be able to find plenty of birds,” said GFP Region 4 Wildlife Manager Scott Lindgren. “With the water and habitat conditions around the area, geese have had an exceptional year.”

While hunting opportunities will be good for hunters, area farmers have additional concerns and challenges with the increased population of resident Canada geese, in particular damage to soybean fields.

“We have had farmers calling our office with depredation complaints,” said Lindgren. “We are hoping sportsmen will assist with curtailing future depredation by taking advantage of the Early Fall Canada goose season.”

Lindgren said that most of the geese shot in the September season are resident geese and the ones that have been causing depredation on agriculture crops. “Hunters are the best way to control their population. By October, northeastern South Dakota begins seeing more migrant Canada geese; they are not the ones causing the depredation.”

Hunting early Canada geese is no easy task however. “Most of the hunting pressure occurs opening weekend and this can be the most difficult time to get permission to hunt private land,” said Lindgren. “Access is much better after the first week and hunting gets very good in the middle of September. Even though we have high numbers of geese in all of northeastern South Dakota, scouting is still the key. Plenty of geese use public hunting areas for resting areas, so they can be good as well.”

The GFP has also added some special waterfowl access areas in Day and Marshall Counties to help waterfowl hunters gain access in high depredation areas. These areas are in the 2009 Walk In Area Atlas, which will be available this week, or for more information call the Webster GFP office at 345-3381.

Licenses are available for nonresidents for $45, are valid for the entire September season and can be purchased by mail, online at http://www.sdgfp.info/licenses.htm, at the Sportsman’s Cove in Webster, or the Cowboy 2 in Watertown at the junction of highways 212 and 81. Non-residents will also need their federal waterfowl stamp.

Resident hunters need a small game or combination license. In addition, they must have the state Migratory Bird Certification and a federal waterfowl stamp.

“We want to encourage hunters landowners who have encountered goose depredation to utilize hunters in this unique situation. This is a great opportunity for hunters to introduce kids and others who are not active goose hunters. If hunters can provide assistance to producers while enjoying the outdoors and the sport of hunting, we see it as a win-win for everyone,” said Lindgren.

The Early Canada Goose Season runs September 5-30. The daily limit is 5 birds with a 10 bird possession limit.

For more information, visit www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/hunting/waterfowl/Fallgoose.htm

Arizona Game and Fish Department

Arizona --(AmmoLand.com)- This may be summer, but there is an interesting way to have autumn and spring on your mind.

The Arizona Game and Fish Commission on Aug. 1 approved the hunting regulations for the upcoming waterfowl season and the spring hunts for 2010.

So fire up your computers on Aug. 21, which is when both regulations should be available online at www.azgfd.gov. Although it is always possible that the regulations could be posted a few days early if the stars and ducks align.

Waterfowl and snipe

For general waterfowl and snipe, the overall general season will be a liberal season, 101 days in each of the state’s two zones.

The season begins Oct. 9 in the mountain zone and Oct. 23 in the desert zone. The mountain zone season ends Jan. 17 while the desert zone ends Jan. 31. However, for scaup ducks, the season is only 86 days, with a delayed start but ending at the same time in each of the zones.

There are two other changes, canvasback ducks are legal to take this year (last year was closed) and the bag for pintail has been increased from one to two.

Included in the regulations are two juniors-only hunts. There is an early season junior hunt Oct. 3-4 in the mountain zone, and then a late season junior hunt Feb. 6-7, 2010 in the desert zone. Both hunts are great opportunities for kids, 17 and under, to have the field to themselves.
While it may come as a surprise, Arizona offers a number of good duck hunting opportunities across the state from jumping stock tanks in the desert to decoying and calling ducks over lakes, streams, and marshes.

Water conditions throughout the state are good to average, which is the key to holding ducks that migrate from the northwest. As the season progresses, keep your eye on the weather forecasts for Idaho and Utah. When those states experience freezing weather and cold fronts, Arizona will typically see new ducks arriving shortly after. To get started in duck hunting all you need is a shotgun and some non-toxic shot. However, hip waders are a great asset. After that, it is just plain addictive. There is nothing like sitting on the edge of a marsh, while the sun rises and listening to the whistling wings of ducks coming into your decoy spread.

All waterfowl hunters 14 and older need a general hunting license (those younger must be accompanied by a licensed adult). Additionally, a state waterfowl stamp and a federal duck are required for those 16 and older. For those hunting snipe, coots and moorhens a state migratory bird stamp is required for those 16 and older. New this year is an alternate duck stamp using a youngster’s artwork from the federal duck stamp contest; however, it is only available at the Phoenix Game and Fish office. Regular Arizona duck stamps are available at most retailers who sell licenses.

To learn more about waterfowl hunting, visit www.azgfd.gov/hunting and select “Waterfowl Hunting.”
2010 Spring Turkey, Javelina, Buffalo and Bear

Spring Hunts
It might be easier than you think to wrap your mind around spring even though the heat of summer is still making you sweat. It won’t be long before the 2010 spring hunt regulations are posted and you can begin applying.

Many of these hunts require a hunt permit-tag allocated through the drawing process. Hunters can submit an application as soon as the regulations are posted on the department’s Web site.

Applications must be received by U.S. mail or hand delivered by Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. (MST) and postmarks do not count. There is no online application system. For more details about applying for a tag through the draw, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.

The good news is the commission continues to offer hunts not tied to the lottery process. There are many nonpermit-tags for direct purchase over-the-counter at any license dealer, including the juniors-only spring turkey season, the archery-only javelina hunts in metro units, as well as general and archery-only spring bear seasons.

First introduced in the spring of 2009, the over-the-counter juniors-only turkey hunt is a big success, with excellent participation and an overwhelming support from the sportsmen’s community.

To facilitate the new program, the department partnered with many organizations and hosted a couple of mentored hunting camps to encourage beginning young hunters to get involved. These camps were so successful that there will be three camps during the opening weekend in the spring of 2010.

If you’re a new hunter, you can find out more about these event and more like them at www.azgfd.gov/hunting and check out the “Mentored Hunting & Juniors-only Events 2009-10 Season” feature on the right side of the page.

Kids 14 and under interested in getting started in hunting big game, such as javelina, turkey, deer, and are required to take an Arizona certified hunter education course.

The department offers a variety of courses from the introductory course, combo course to the latest online self-paced course. Each offers plenty of lessons in addition to hunter and firearm safety.

If you are planning a hunt in the spring, now is the time to get your hunter education completed. To find a class near you that suits your schedule, visit www.azgfd.gov/education and select “Hunter Education.”

Upcoming hunting season opening dates
(For detailed season dates, bag limits and laws, check the appropriate regulations at www.azgfd.gov/rules.)

Year-round: Rabbit season (cottontail and jackrabbits)
Sept. 1: Dove season
Sept. 5-6: Robbins Butte juniors-only dove hunt
Oct. 2: Squirrel season
Oct. 2: Quail season (excluding Mearns’)
Nov. 20: Dove late season
Nov.27: Mearns’ quail season

About:
The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(AmmoLand.com)- Ohio shutterbugs are encouraged to enter their best Baltimore oriole photos in the first Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp photo contest. The winning photograph of this colorful orange-and-black bird will be featured on the inaugural Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp to be issued March 1, 2010.

The contest is open to all Ohio residents, ages 18 years and older; one cash award will be given to the winning photographer. Photographers under the age of 17 are encouraged to submit their Baltimore oriole photos for Web and print recognition. Only photos received via U.S. mail between August 3 and 14 are eligible for consideration.

“This stamp was developed because we know that there are Ohioans who want to help in our wildlife-conservation efforts,” said David M. Graham, chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

The $15 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp will be available for purchase online in March at wildohio.com. By purchasing the stamp, you will be supporting vital habitat restoration and research projects, land purchases and conservation easements and educational products for students and wildlife enthusiasts.

A new, collectible stamp depicting a different animal will be issued each year to highlight the diversity of Ohio’s natural world.

“Purchasing this stamp will help provide much-needed funding for habitat and wildlife projects,” said Graham. “It’s a way for those who care about wildlife to invest today for tomorrow’s wild Ohio.”

Discover more about the stamp by visiting wildohiostamp.com or calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

Contest Details
Open to Ohio residents, ages 18 years and older.*
First place winner will receive a cash award.
Photographers 17 and younger may enter photos for Web and magazine recognition.
Only photos submitted by mail are eligible for consideration.
Photo submissions will be accepted between August 3 and August 14, 2009.
Each photo must be accompanied by a completed entry form and $12 entry fee. Photographers 17 and under are exempt from the entry fee.
Entry fees may be paid by check or money order made out to the Wildlife Diversity Fund.
Mail entries to: Tim Daniel, ODNR Division of Wildlife, 2045 Morse Road, G-1, Columbus, OH 43229.
*Employees of the ODNR and their immediate family members are not eligible to participate.

Complete contest rules, including photo size and mounting, are available at wildohiostamp.com or by emailing wildohiostamp@dnr.state.oh.us and requesting a copy of the rules.

About:
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Division of Wildlife

COLUMBUS, OHIO - -(AmmoLand.com)- The Ohio Wildlife Council has approved the state’s early migratory bird hunting seasons for this fall, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

September 1 will kick off the state’s hunting seasons with the opening of dove, Canada goose, rail, moorhen and snipe. Squirrel hunting season also starts that day.

Ohio’s dove hunting season runs September 1 through October 25 and December 7 through December 21, with a daily limit of 15 birds and a possession limit of 30 birds.

Controlled dove hunts will be offered at Fallsville, Rush Run, Spring Valley, Indian Creek and Bott state wildlife areas, and St. Marys Fish Hatchery. These controlled hunts will take place Tuesday, September 1 and Wednesday, September 2; hunting hours will be noon to sunset. Youth-priority controlled dove hunts will be held at St. Marys Fish Hatchery on September 1, 5, 6, 13, 19 and 20.

Drawings for all of these hunts will take place at noon, Saturday, August 22, at the respective public area headquarters. Maps and details are available at wildohio.com. Questions about any one of these hunts should be directed to the southwest ODNR Division of Wildlife district office at 937-372-9261.

Canada geese may be hunted statewide September 1-15, during the special early season, with a daily limit of four birds and possession limit of eight birds after the first day. The Mercer Goose Zone will not be open during the early Canada goose season.

The early teal hunting season will be open September 5 and end September 20, with a daily bag limit of four birds and possession limit of eight after the first day.

Waterfowl hunters must have a valid hunting license in addition to a state wetlands habitat stamp endorsement, a federal duck stamp and a Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification. Anyone who intends to hunt migratory game birds must obtain a new HIP certification each year.

Sora rails, Virginia rails and moorhens can be hunted September 1 through November 9, with a daily limit of 25 rails and 15 moorhens. Hunting season for snipe will be September 1 through November 29 and December 7-23, with a daily bag limit of eight. The woodcock hunting season is open October 10 through November 23, with a daily bag limit of three birds and a possession limit of six birds.

Hunting hours during the seasons for rails, moorhens, snipe, woodcock, teal, doves and Canada geese are sunrise to sunset. The only exceptions will be on wildlife areas that have specially posted hunting times for doves.

The 2009-10 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations and the 2009 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons brochure can be found on line at wildohio.com. The 2009 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons brochure will be available by late August at license outlets, Division of Wildlife district offices, or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

About:
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Pair Of Hooded Mergansers By The 2006-07 Federal Duck Stamp Winner Sherrie Russell Meline

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(AmmoLand.com)- There are three great reasons to pick up a 2009-2010 Arizona Waterfowl Stamp from the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

The reasons start with the beautifully detailed and life-like rendition of a pair of hooded mergansers by the 2006-07 Federal Duck Stamp winner Sherrie Russell Meline.

Meline is well known for her impeccably textured feather work, using an acrylic wash, delicately applying layer by layer from a self-mixed color palette. Meline’s artwork has graced the face of more than 30 other state and Canadian province duck stamps.

Secondly, for the first time ever, an alternative stamp is available – unofficially deemed the state’s junior art duck stamp.

Junior Duck Stamp of American widgeon by Olivia Raiff

“We created it in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to recognize young inspiring artists who are learning about the importance of wetlands and waterfowl conservation through the Federal Junior Duck Stamp program,” said Mike Rabe, duck stamp administrator and migratory bird biologist for the department. “It’s really a neat thing and I’m glad we are able to do it.”

“To be able to recognize the contribution of our Arizona kids in this state category is truly heartwarming and inspiring,” said Margot Bissell former Arizona Junior Duck Stamp Coordinator with the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge. “Now our young artists have the excitement of a second opportunity to display their conservation and artistic learning’s.”

Ten-year-old Olivia Raiff, of Scottsdale, has the honors of being the first young amateur artist from the competition to have their artwork featured on the state’s annual waterfowl stamp.

“When I got the phone call, it took me awhile to process that I won,” said Raiff. “Then I was in shock for a minute. I couldn’t think straight when the judges asked me questions. It still seems crazy now.”

Raiff, a fifth-grader from Pinnacle Peak Elementary, created an inspiring piece of art of an American widgeon taking flight out of the cattails titled “take-off” using watercolor pencils under the passionate guidance of art teacher, Gay Kohl. Her composition captured the realism of the duck’s wings direction at first flight, identified accurate habitat, and incorporated a flock of ducks in the sky off in the distance.

When asked what she liked best about the art program, Raiff added, “I like it all, but my favorite part would be the competition. I always try to add details that would make my picture stand out.”

A limited run of 500 of the alternate stamps are available for purchase, but only from the department’s headquarters office in Phoenix. Hunters and collectors can chose to purchase one or both of the stamps. Either stamp will validate a general hunting license (along with a federal duck stamp) for the legal take of waterfowl, ducks, and geese during the 2009-10 season.

Lastly, the good news is the money generated from the sale of the state’s waterfowl stamp is used to for the conservation of wetlands to benefit Arizona’s waterfowl species. When buying either stamp, you are supporting waterfowl conservation. Now in its 22nd year, some of the investments from the program have resulted in amazing resting grounds for wintering sandhill cranes, geese, waterfowl and many other birds and wildlife.

So, if you enjoy wildlife watching, birding or just beautiful wetland landscapes, show your support for wildlife and artists and buy an Arizona Waterfowl Stamp – the cost is only $8.75. They can be purchased at any Game and Fish office or license dealer around the state.

For a list of where to find ducks in Arizona, visit www.azgfd.gov/h_f/waterfowl_habitat.shtml.

To learn more about the Federal Junior Duck Stamp art contest, visit www.fws.gov/juniorduck.

Note to media: High-resolution photos of the 2009 Arizona Waterfowl Stamps are available by contacting Public Information Officer Doug Burt at dburt@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7215.

About:
The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Designed by South Dakota artist Joshua Spies, the 2009-2010 Federal Duck Stamp features a long-tailed duck and decoy. USFWS image

Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

Washington, DC - -(AmmoLand.com)- The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Ducks Unlimited urges supporters and conservationists to purchase the 75th Federal Duck Stamp today, the ‘First Day of Sale.’ In conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Bass Pro Shops, the ‘First Day of Sale’ will be celebrated by wetland and associated habitat conservationists in more than 20 Bass Pro locations across the country.

“The Federal Duck Stamp has been a cornerstone for waterfowl habitat conservation, funding National Wildlife Refuges and Waterfowl Production Areas throughout the country for 75 years,” said Dr. Alan Wentz, senior group manager of conservation, communications and marketing for DU and a member of the TRCP board of directors. “This is a big day for us at DU because we understand the stamp’s significance not only to conservation, but also to our waterfowl hunting heritage.”

Used as a license for migratory waterfowl hunting and a conservation tool, 98 cents of every dollar generated by the Federal Duck Stamp goes directly into the National Wildlife Refuge system. Since its inception in 1934, the stamp has generated more than $700 million and conserved more than 5.2 million acres in the National Wildlife Refuge system.

The Junior Federal Duck Stamp also goes on sale tomorrow and the proceeds go towards environmental education and awards for the winners. The Junior Duck Stamp is $5 and is collected by conservationists and stamp collectors as well.

Recognizing the stamp’s importance for waterfowl habitat and populations, DU heightened its role in promoting the Federal Duck Stamp and the contest. DU and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service signed a memorandum of understanding on Dec. 2, 2008, agreeing to facilitate future Federal Duck Stamp contests, promotion and support as one solid team.

“The stamp is truly an example of how waterfowl hunters and all sportsmen have been, and will continue to be, the key to conservation efforts,” Wentz explained. “The ‘First day of Sale’ for the 75th-anniversary Federal Duck Stamp is a huge day, especially for waterfowl hunters, and looking at what this program has accomplished – it’s definitely something to celebrate.”

Learn more about the Federal Duck Stamp and how you can buy yours.

About:
Inspired by the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, the TRCP is a coalition of organizations and grassroots partners working together to preserve the traditions of hunting and fishing.

New Jersey Fish and Game

Trenton, NJ - -(AmmoLand.com)- Hunters are reminded that beginning with the 2009-2010 New Jersey waterfowl hunting season, a “paper” waterfowl stamp will no longer be issued along with the waterfowl stamp privilege purchased from license agents or via the internet sales site.

Only the production of the paper stamps is being discontinued. The waterfowl stamp program itself will not be discontinued.

New Jersey waterfowl hunters must possess a current New Jersey hunting license, a current HIP certification, a current New Jersey waterfowl stamp privilege, and a current federal waterfowl stamp (available at your local post office) to participate in the season.

About:
Division of Fish and Wildlife is a professional environmental agency dedicated to the protection, management and wise use of New Jersey’s fish and wildlife resources.