New Migratory Bird Stamp Benefits Montana’s Wetlands

On Monday, February 26, 2024, Montana Audubon joined conservation partners for the unveiling of the 2024 Migratory Bird Stamp art contest winner during a ceremony at the State Capitol.

The winning Northern Pintail artwork was selected from more than 70 submissions from artists across the U.S. Montana’s stamp will be an optional companion to the required federal bird stamp. Proceeds from license sales will support wetland habitat conservation and restoration.

The winning artist is John Nelson Harris, a Florida artist. Harris is the designer of over a dozen conservation prints and stamps. As a hunter and wildlife artist, he believes deeply in the conservation of wildlife and their habitats. Over the years, John’s artwork has raised tens of thousands of dollars for many conservation groups throughout the United States. Montana Audubon joined other conservation organizations to contribute to the prize package for the art contest winner.

📸 Larry Berrin poses next to the unveiled winning artwork for the 2024 Migratory Bird Stamp

“For nearly half a century, we’ve been working with FWP on funding for non-game and their associated habitats. From our leading the effort to pass the non-game checkoff to today’s announcement of the Migratory Bird Stamp, we continue to find creative ways to fund this important work,” said Larry Berrin, Montana Audubon’s Executive Director.

Wetlands, riparian areas, and water are particularly important habitats for wildlife. Montana’s birds depend on wetlands: they provide breeding and nesting areas for at least 52% of Montana’s breeding bird species, as well as much needed food and resting areas for 65% of the birds that routinely migrate through Montana. Temporary wetlands that only have water in the spring are particularly important. The protection and enhancement of Montana’s remaining wetlands is a priority issue for Montana Audubon.

📸 Governor Greg Gianforte unveiling the winner during the ceremony