08/27/2026
Amid growing fears over the destruction of America’s wetlands in 1934, the United States government launched a new, unusual program to help raise funds for conservation: the federal duck stamp.
The duck stamp, also known as the migratory bird hunting and conservation stamp, was introduced under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Waterfowl hunters 16 and older are required to buy a new duck stamp every year, along with any necessary state permits and licenses. The stamps can be purchased by non-hunters, too, since they also guarantee entry to any National Wildlife Refuges that charge admission fees.
The nationwide contest solicits works of art that depict various kinds of waterfowl. The initiative raises money for the purchase or lease of wetlands and wildlife habitats. To date, the historic program has generated more than $1.2 billion and preserved over 6.5 million acres across the nation—an area nearly the size of Massachusetts.
(Pictured: 2026-2027 stamp; Buffleheads by James Hautman)
