One of the most effective conservation funding programs in the nation may also continue to be one of the most convenient. Scott Sutherland, director of DU's Governmental Affairs Office in Washington, D.C., testified before the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife, supporting extension of the Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2005 (the Act). A proposal now pending would extend the
electronic duck stamp pilot program for an additional two years.
The Federal Duck Stamp has generated more than $750 million that has been used to purchase or lease more than 6 million acres of waterfowl habitat in the United States. The duck stamp program, started by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1934, mandates that any waterfowler over the age of 16 buy a stamp. Proceeds from the sales are used to purchase or provide easements on wetlands and associated upland habitats for inclusion in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) National Wildlife Refuge System. Though it started with hunters, any citizen can purchase a duck stamp and use it as an annual pass to national wildlife refuges that charge admission."
Sutherland said the Act made the process of purchasing a duck stamp much easier for hunters and collectors. "In 2005, the Act was passed to make it easier for federal duck stamps to be sold to the public. The stamps are not always available at small post offices and even some larger ones, and are sometimes difficult for waterfowl hunters to purchase over the counter," he said. "The Act allows for purchase on the Internet or by phone, and the purchaser receives a special receipt valid for up to 45 days. This delay allows the USFWS sufficient time to mail a physical stamp to the purchaser."
In his remarks, Sutherland also emphasized the tradition and popularity of the Federal Duck Stamp contest and the role of the high-quality wildlife art associated with the program. He urged Congress and the USFWS to continue supporting a system that will ensure the viability of the contest and the artwork. Sutherland also suggested that Congress explore using the Internet sales process to learn more about the stamp buyers, their hunting experiences and their interests in order to establish more effective ways to market these stamps.