By Todd Schaller, WWA Vice President & Education Committee Chair

This article originally appeared in Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s October, 2023 Newsletter edition.

Over the past several weeks you may have seen several news feeds related to the Federal Duck Stamp Modernization Act.  Naturally this caught my eye, however, the articles didn’t seem clear as to where in the bureaucratic process the “act” was.

If you read the catchy headlines you may think this changes is already in place – sorry, not so fast.   While the bi-partisan effort has passed both the Senate (July) and House (September), it still isn’t signed into law.  Once signed, the effective date will be provided, probably for the 2024 season.

So what is the “Federal Duck Stamp Modernization Act”?  It allows the electronic purchase and display of an electronic stamp on your mobile device.  The change also continues the tradition of the Federal Stamp selection process submitted by artists and the issuance of the physical stamp, which would be mailed after the season (March-June).  Continuation of the tradition of an actual stamp and stamp selection process is important for many hunters and stamp collectors.

While we can currently purchase a Federal Stamp online using systems like WDNR Go-Wild, the electronic receipt is only valid for 45 days and the signed physical stamp is required to be carried while hunting after 45 days from purchase.

In 2024 we’ll be celebrate 80 years of the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act, which was signed by President Franklin D Roosevelt in 1934.  Since it was created, sales of the Federal Stamp have raised over $1.1 billion dollars for conservation.  While the Federal Stamp is usually associated with waterfowl hunters, it is promoted and purchased as a conservation revenue tool outside of the hunter audience.  A recent push and trend is the purchase of multiple stamps as an enhanced individual conservation effort.

The Federal Stamp is a powerful conservation tool, with a slight tweak on the horizon to bring it into the technological era while still maintaining its unique traditions and conservation value.