Buy A Duck Stamp

Today is the on-sale date for the 2006-2007 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (aka "the Duck Stamp"). The stamp's shelf-life is from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007. It costs just $15 and it gets you in FREE to any federal wildlife refuges that charge an entry fee. Plus, if you are so inclined, it also serves as your waterfowl-hunting license. The proceeds from Stamp sales (as much as $25 million per year) go to habitat acquisition for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Paul Baicich has sent along a link to a list of reasons why bird watchers should by an annual duck stamp.

Buying a duck stamp makes good sense. It helps acquire habitat used by all birds (not just "harvestable" species). And, as bird watchers, it puts our money where our mouth is.

Make sure, when you fill out the purchase form, that you indicate that you are a birder or bird watcher. It's important that we birders demonstrate (in this tangible, numbers-don't-lie way) our interest in conservation and our growing economic impact. You can buy a duck stamp at your local post office, via the USPS online, or at many sporting goods retailers.

Just do it!