Connecting Conservation Through Art!
You can invest in the future of Washington’s diverse migratory bird and wetland resources. Your purchase of one or more Washington state migratory bird permits or migratory bird stamp and artwork products represents not only a sound personal financial investment for you, but also an investment in Washington’s wetlands, waterfowl, and other migratory bird resources.
Wetlands throughout Washington sustain not only our breeding populations, but birds that breed in Alaska, western Canada, and even Russia. Washington plays an important role for migratory birds, including waterfowl and shorebirds, that are reliant on a network of wetlands between breeding and wintering areas. Over 35 species and subspecies of ducks, geese, and swans depend on Washington wetlands, which include coastal estuaries, beaver ponds, desert potholes, sloughs, and lakes. Other migratory game birds benefiting from the program include mourning doves, band-tailed pigeons, and snipe.
Revenue from the sale of migratory bird permits (required of all migratory gamebird hunters) is used to buy and develop migratory bird habitat in the state and enhance, protect, and produce migratory birds in the state. Revenue from the sale of artwork such as limited edition prints and stamps (available to everyone) is used to contract with individuals or nonprofit organizations to develop waterfowl production projects in Washington.
Ongoing and new projects funded by the Migratory Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation Program, also referred to as the State Duck Stamp Program, are described in the current Expenditure Plan. (PDF)
You can also see the Migratory Waterfowl and Wetland Conservation Program story map for further details on each project, as well as the history of the program in Washington.
How can I support Conservation Through Art?
Promote waterfowl and wetland conservation through art! By giving someone you know waterfowl artwork, you pass along the story and importance of wetland stewardship. Stamps are a double investment -- investing in waterfowl habitat and also in collectible stamps, which can increase in value as time passes. Some past duck stamps have gained 65 to 175 percent in value. Even if you purchase a stamp for collecting or a limited edition print, buying additional artwork is a good investment both for you and for Washington wetlands, waterfowl and other wetland-dependent species. Please visit the Washington Waterfowl Association’s and WDFW websites to order and learn more and continue this waterfowl conservation legacy!