The Duck Stamp Modernization Act took effect last month, making the Federal Duck Stamp electronically accessible to waterfowl hunters for the entire season. Previously the electronic Federal Duck Stamp was only valid for 45 days or until the purchaser received the physical stamp.
Now all electronic Federal Duck Stamps will expire June 30 each year, allowing waterfowl hunters to carry their electronic stamp on their smartphone or other mobile devices using the Go Outdoors North Carolina App.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will only mail the physical Federal Duck Stamp after March 10th. If you do not wish to carry your Federal Duck Stamp electronically you may purchase a physical stamp at your local US Post Office between July 1 and April 1 each year.
The USFWS also announced a price increase for the electronic Federal Duck Stamp from $27 to $29 beginning 8/1. The physical Federal Duck Stamp remains $25 if purchased at the US Post Office.
Federal Duck Stamps are conservation revenue stamps; 98% of the purchase price goes directly to help acquire and protect wetland habitat and purchase conservation easements for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Wetlands acquired with Duck Stamp dollars help purify water, aid in flood control, reduce soil erosion and sedimentation and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities.