Design the next Black Bear and Migratory Game Bird Stamp

Contests Now Open 

“Autumn Morning” by Steve Oliver, New Castle County, DE

Waterfowl and wildlife artists are invited to submit their original artwork for the 20^th annual Maryland Black Bear Conservation and 42^nd annual Migratory Game Bird stamp design contests now through April 15. The Department of Natural Resources will judge the entries on April 22 in conjunction with the annual Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City.

The Black Bear Conservation Stamp contest is open to Maryland residents and non-residents. Each contestant may submit one entry for a non-refundable $10 entry fee. Proceeds from the sale of these stamps and other related products are used to compensate farmers who experience agricultural damage caused by black bears.

Last year’s winner. “Sunset Canvasbacks” by Jim Taylor of Towson

The Migratory Game Bird Stamp contest is open to Maryland residents only. Each contestant may submit up to three entries ($15 for one entry; $20 for two; $30 for three). Proceeds from the sale of these stamps help fund migratory bird and waterfowl projects and research.

To enter either contest, artists must mail their design(s) with the required entry fee and forms to: Christopher Markin, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife & Heritage Service, 580 Taylor Ave., E-1, Annapolis, MD 21401. Submissions are due on April 15.

All entries must be the artist’s original work, neither copied nor duplicated from any previously published paintings, drawings, prints or photographs by the contestant, or any other artist. For complete contest rules and entry forms, visit dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife, or contact Christopher Markin at Christopher.Markin@maryland.gov or 410-260-8584.