CONTACT:  Jacquelyn Christopher, DNR assistant upland wildlife ecologist (wild turkey or pheasant), 608-261-8458; Eddie Shea, DNR assistant wetland habitat specialist (waterfowl), 608-261-0775

MADISON – Applications for Wisconsin Wild Turkey, Pheasant and Waterfowl Stamp funds are due April 12, 2017.

Stamp funds are available to non-profit conservation organizations and units of government focused on habitat development, management, preservation, restoration and maintenance for wild turkey, pheasant and waterfowl. Funding for successful applicants will be available during the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ 2018 and 2019 fiscal years.

“Thanks to these stamp programs, millions of dollars have been dedicated to projects directly related to habitat and species management of Wisconsin’s turkey, pheasant and waterfowl populations,” said Jaqi Christopher, DNR assistant upland wildlife ecologist.

Habitat projects typically involve restoration and management of valuable woodland, savanna, grassland and wetland communities.

“The diverse habitat work funded by the sale of Wisconsin Wild Turkey, Pheasant and Waterfowl Stamps is a significant benefit to the citizens of Wisconsin,” said Eddie Shea, DNR assistant wetland habitat specialist. “These types of projects provide quality habitat for a broad suite of wildlife species, offering a great outdoor experience to hunters and non-hunters alike.”

Funds are generated from the sale of Wild Turkey, Pheasant or Waterfowl Stamps, as well as a portion of conservation patron license sales. While stamps are required to hunt these species, many collectors and nature enthusiasts also purchase the stamps to help support wildlife habitat.

On average, annual wildlife stamp revenue exceeds $300,000 for pheasant, $750,000 for wild turkey and $550,000 for waterfowl. Through state law, 60 percent of Pheasant Stamp funds are reserved for game farm pheasant production, while one-third of Waterfowl Stamp funds are reserved for habitat projects in Canada, where a significant proportion of Wisconsin’s fall ducks are reared.

For eligibility information and criteria, application guidance, funding priorities, and further information, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keyword “wildlife stamps.”

 

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