JACKSON — A new federal law signed in Dec. 2023 by Joe Biden means hunters can now purchase an electronic federal duck stamp. United States Fish and Wildlife Service states the stamp is now available for purchase in Mississippi and other participating states. 

The bill signed into law was known as the Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023. This Act modifies provisions regarding the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, commonly referred to as the Duck Stamp. Since it passed, hunters are able to purchase and possess an electronic stamp instead of a physical stamp. All migratory bird hunters over the age of 16 must possess a duck stamp. 

According to USFWS, 2024-2025 Federal Electronic Duck Stamps (E-stamps) will be available for purchase through previously enrolled states and through Amplex. E-stamps will be valid from the date of purchase through June 30, 2025. 

Participants in the E-Stamp program must carry their electronic or hard copy duck stamp while hunting. A physical duck stamp will be mailed to each E-Stamp user. Houston Havens, Waterfowl Program Coordinator for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, said the physical stamps will be mailed out to customers between March and May 2025 after waterfowl seasons had closed. 

According to USFWS, the cost of the E-Stamp is $25 plus $4 for a processing and convenience fee. Hunters are still able to purchase the federal duck stamp through MDWFP. The electronic federal duck stamp can be shown on the MDWFP phone application under the licenses tab. 

Waterfowl seasons will open in Mississippi on Sept. 1 with Canada Goose, rails, gallinules  and Dove seasons. Early Teal season will open on Sept. 14. 

Funding conservation

For the past 90 years, duck stamps have helped fund conservation efforts of waterfowl populations. Anyone can purchase a duck stamp. Money raised at the federal and state level is used to fund the conservation mission in partnership with private organizations like Delta Waterfowl and Ducks Unlimited. 

“Since quality wetland habitats provide habitat for a myriad of species – including threatened and endangered plants and animals – as well as provide clean water, aid in flood control, and reduce the effects of soil erosion and sedimentation a current Federal Duck Stamp purchase allows you to be an active conservationist,” the USFWS states. “Healthy habitats also enhance outdoor recreation opportunities which can provide an economic incentive to local communities.”