Minnesota waterfowl hunters are familiar with the state and federal “duck stamps” that are required for hunting each fall. Issued separately by the U. S. Read moreMinnesota waterfowl hunters are familiar with the state and federal “duck stamps” that are required for hunting each fall. Issued separately by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), these miniature works of art are also sought after by collectors and others with an interest in supporting wildlife conservation. Every stamp offers the opportunity to contribute to the protection and management of waterfowl habitat.
MINNESOTA'S DUCK STAMP
Although the federal waterfowl stamp has been a cornerstone of protecting our nation’s waterfowl habitat, the challenge of managing waterfowl populations far exceeds the revenues generated on the federal level. In 1977, a group of dedicated waterfowl hunters, led by the Minnesota Waterfowl Association (MWA), convinced the Legislature to establish the Minnesota Migratory Waterfowl Stamp. The first stamp design was commissioned to Waterville artist David Maass, also a two-time federal duck stamp winner. Patterned after the MWA logo, the design shows three mallards rising above the cattails against a bright blue sky.
Each year since then the Minnesota DNR conducts a contest for the following year’s stamp design. A list of past winners is printed on the reverse side. Contest rules and information are available at: www.dnr.state.mn.us/contests/stamps.html
More than 3.5 million Minnesota duck stamps have been sold to hunters over the past three decades, generating $15.7 million for the restoration and management of waterfowl and waterfowl habitat in Minnesota. Although the stamp proceeds help support spring and fall waterfowl counts, as well as waterfowl research projects; over 86% is spent directly on habitat monitoring, restoration, and protection. less
2024 Minnesota Duck Stamp Print - Ringneck Ducks by Mark Kness
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Zzz 1977 Minnesota Duck Stamp Print - Mallards By David Maass
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