Michigan waterfowlers and the state DNR have joined forces to release a special Governor's Edition Michigan duck stamp and print.
The Michigan Duck Hunters Association and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently unveiled a special, limited run Governor's Edition duck stamp and print.
The stamp honors Governor Rick Snyder, who DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason said is "...a strong ally in wetland and waterfowl conservation in Michigan, supporting the funding of wetland mitigation banking and the creation of wetlands in areas where wetlands once occurred."
The stamp and print also recognize the work that Michigan duck hunters have done for wildlife and habitat conservation.
The Michigan Duck Hunters Association coordinates the Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program in partnership with the Michigan DNR. The duck stamp program began in 1976 and is seen as a vital, long-term conservation project for duck hunters and wetland conservationists.
The Governor's Edition stamp and print feature a pair of American wigeons in flight and Gov. Rick Snyder's signature. The DNR issued a press release stating that "Only 100 copies of the print will be available, for $150 each. Governor's Edition prints each come with an artist-signed edition of the standard 2018 duck stamp and the special Governor's Edition duck stamp. Two hundred copies of the stamp will be sold at a price of $25 each."
Proceeds from stamp and print sales are used to fund wetland habitat projects. Mason declared that Gov. Snyder "...understands the important role that natural resources, fish and wildlife play in guiding Michigan's economic recovery and growth."
Gov. Snyder and artist Christopher Smith. Michigan.gov
The Artist
Wildlife artist Christopher Smith painted the 2018 Governor's Edition Michigan duck stamp. Smith is an accomplished artist with a track record of winning wildlife art contests. He took first place in the 2016, 2014, and 2005 Michigan State Duck Stamp Contest, finished in second place in 2013, and placed first in 2009 and 2014 for the Michigan Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Artist of the Year. He also tied for seventh place in the 2016 Federal Duck Stamp Contest, and painted the 2013 Print of the Year for the Ruffed Grouse Society.
To learn more about the Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program and how to support conservation efforts in Michigan through the purchase of limited-edition, signed and numbered prints and collector-edition stamps, visit michigan.gov/waterfowl (program information can be found under Additional Resources). Purchasing the stamps is voluntary and does not replace the state waterfowl hunting license.
The Michigan Duck Hunters Association will mail individuals who purchase a 2018 waterfowl hunting license a free copy of the standard 2018 stamp (subject to availability) if they send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with a copy of their Michigan waterfowl hunting license to: MDHA Waterfowl Stamp Program, P.O. Box 186, Kawkawlin, MI 48631.
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