The Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (also known as the Duck Stamp or the Federal Duck Stamp) is a revenue stamp that all waterfowl hunters in the U.S.—over 16 years of age—must purchase and carry with them in the field. But it is much more than that.

It is also a vital conservation fund-raiser because the proceeds from Stamp sales help purchase and protect wetland and grassland habitat for the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Stamp does more than benefit waterfowl; it helps multiple suites of bird species—and other wildlife—which favor wetlands and grasslands. Duck Stamp dollars also help purify water, aid in flood control, reduce soil erosion and sedimentation, and provide spawning areas for fish.

Through the Stamp, and since the 1930s, over $750 million has been collected, and 5.3 million acres of habitat has been protected for wildlife and for the enjoyment of future generations of Americans.

Waterfowl hunters have sustained the Stamp since its inception, in 1934. Indeed, the Stamp has become part of their proud tradition, one destined to be passed on to future generations. Still, waterfowl hunters cannot be expected to sustain the Stamp alone, especially since the benefits from the Stamp are passed on to all Americans. Others must step up. Part of what our Friends Group does is promote the value and sale of the Stamp for those people—especially outdoor recreationists and environmentalists—who are not required to buy a Stamp.

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Stamp Holders & More

We recommend a few products or tools that organizations or individuals can buy to help promote the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation [Duck] Stamp. These should help anyone to to sell and promote the Stamp, the wildlife resource, and the Refuge System where Stamp funds (through the MBCF) go.

Downloads

We have some fine materials that can be used to promote and appreciate the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation [Duck] Stamp. Some are from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; some are from other NGOs; some are from our own Friends Group. All are free and downloadable. They also present ideas that individuals and groups can develop use to sell and promote the Stamp, the wildlife resource, and the Refuge System where Stamp funds (through the MBCF) go.

Article Links

We provide links here to a growing number of articles, big and small, which have appeared recently, and which discuss the Stamp, its uses, growth, and future.

We expect that these articles will help to facilitate ongoing discussion and regular promotion when it comes to the Stamp.

These articles may help Friends to understand, explain, and defend the Stamp.