Joe Hautman, a wildlife artist from South Dakota, has been named the winner of the annual Federal Duck Stamp contest. Hautman’s painting of a pair of mallards will be featured on the 2022-2023 Federal Duck Stamp, which raises funds for conservation efforts and wetland habitats.
The Federal Duck Stamp contest is held each year by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to select a design for the stamp, which is required for all waterfowl hunters age 16 and older. The stamp is also purchased by collectors and conservationists to support wildlife conservation efforts.
Hautman, who has previously won the Federal Duck Stamp contest in 1992, 2002, and 2008, is known for his realistic and detailed wildlife paintings. His winning painting of the mallards was praised for its lifelike representation of the birds and the serene natural setting.
In a statement, Hautman expressed his gratitude for winning the contest and his passion for wildlife conservation. He emphasized the importance of supporting conservation efforts to protect the natural habitats of waterfowl and other wildlife species.
The Federal Duck Stamp program has raised over $1 billion for conservation since its inception in 1934, with 98 cents of every dollar generated going directly to the purchase or lease of wetland habitats for protection. The stamp is considered one of the most successful conservation programs in the country and has played a crucial role in preserving and restoring millions of acres of wetlands for wildlife.
Hautman’s winning painting will be featured on the 2022-2023 Federal Duck Stamp, which will be available for purchase starting in June 2022. Conservationists and art enthusiasts alike can support wildlife conservation by purchasing the stamp and contributing to the protection of critical wetland habitats.
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