WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) has introduced bipartisan legislation to update the price of the Federal Duck Stamp for the first time since 1991. Proceeds from the duck stamp are used to finance wetlands conservation efforts, but inflation over the last two decades has diminished the program’s purchasing power. The Federal Duck Stamp Act of 2014 will update the duck stamp so it can continue supporting habitat conservation and outdoor recreation across the country.

“As part of the Atlantic flyway, Delaware’s wetlands support the migration of thousands of waterfowl every year,” Senator Coons said. “Proceeds from the Federal Duck Stamp have played a vital role in conserving our wildlife habitat, but the cost of the stamp has not kept pace with rising land prices. The Federal Duck Stamp Act of 2014 will restore the duck stamp’s value by updating its price for the first time in more than two decades. This bill is good news for Delaware’s passionate community of sportsmen and all who enjoy our state’s vibrant natural resources.”

The Federal Duck Stamp Act of 2014 would increase the price of the duck stamp to $25 from the current level of $15, a move long-supported by the sportsmen’s community. The legislation also requires any additional revenue from the price increase to be used for conservation easements, ensuring that habitat will be protected without a substantial increase in federal land ownership.

“As a Senior Vice President and Chairman of the Conservation Programs Committee for Ducks Unlimited, I have seen the great work accomplished by the Federal Duck Stamp from conservation easements in the prairies protecting important breeding habitat, to enhancing national wildlife refuges here in Delaware, and elsewhere for wildlife and people,” said Bill D'Alonzo of Greenville, Delaware, a member of the Ducks Unlimited national board of directors. “This is a model for good government where the user pays and the user and public benefits. Thanks to Senator Coons for his leadership in this worthwhile effort.”

Established in 1934, the duck stamp program has raised more than $800 million and preserved more than six million acres of wetlands for waterfowl conservation. Ninety-eight cents out of every dollar generated by the sale of Federal Duck Stamps goes directly to purchase or lease wetland habitat for protection in the National Wildlife Refuge System. Delaware’s two national wildlife refuges — Bombay Hook in Kent County and Prime Hook in Sussex County — draw a combined 200,000 visitors annually that contribute to their local economies.

The bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Senators David Vitter (R-La.), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and Jon Tester (D-Mont.).  A House version of this legislation has been introduced by Rep. John Fleming (R-La.).