The State of Minnesota's migratory waterfowl stamp in now in its 30th year of production.  In that time period, 3.5 million stamps have been sold generating $15.7 million to restore habitat for wetland wildlife species.The Federal Duck Stamp made its appearance in 1934.  In 1973, the Minnesota Waterfowl Association consisiting of about 4000 members started the push at the Minnesota State Capital to write stamp legislation.  After an intensive campaign, the bill passed in 1977. 

    Concern has continued to be expressed from many citizens about the State of Minnesota's wetlands and the declining duck population. A portion of a housing development near our home is on swamp land and the few homes that have been built there are suffering with water issues. The ducks would not have minded a bit!

    We have several beaver ponds on our property and the ducks and geese have had a busy year. We give them sanctuary and they give us great viewing pleasure.

    72 year old, Howard Hanson. President of the Minnesota Waterfowl Association, during the press for the stamp said, "Duck hunters aren't afraid to tackle tough issues and they're tenacious."  Sounds like a campaign slogan to me and it worked.