Burton a judge at Federal Duck Stamp Contest

Memphis, TN -- Ward Burton is in Memphis this week attending the Federal Duck Stamp Contest as a judge, one of only five chosen. The Department of the Interior contacted Burton and asked for his participation in the event. With Burton's passion for conservation, he considered the invitation an honor and graciously accepted.

This year marks a significant departure from previous Federal Duck Stamp Contests; for the first time the Federal Duck Stamp Contest will be held outside Washington D.C. The contest is a week long event sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners. There are many events throughout the week to celebrate the Duck Stamp, conservation, history, and tradition. While at the event, Burton has not only enjoyed judging the wonderful artwork but attending the various exhibits as well. "I have been able to see some fantastic Duck Stamp entries; it is going to be tough to pick a winner. This is a great family event and there are many exhibits to learn about conservation," stated Burton.

Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps, commonly known as "Ducks Stamps," are pictorial stamps produced by the U.S. Postal Service for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. They are not valid for postage. Originally created in 1934 as the federal licenses required for hunting migratory waterfowl, Federal Duck Stamps have a much larger purpose today.

Federal Duck Stamps are a vital tool for wetland conservations. Ninety-eight cents out of every dollar generated by the sales of Federal Duck Stamps goes directly to purchase or lease wetland habitat for protection in the National Wildlife Refuge System. Understandably, the Federal Duck Stamp Program has been called one of the most successful conservation programs ever initiated and is a highly effective way to conserve America's natural resources.

Besides serving as a hunting license and a conservation tool, a current year's Federal Duck Stamp also serves as an entrance pass for National Wildlife Refuges where admission is normally charged. Duck Stamps and the products that bear duck stamp images are also popular collector items.

For more information on the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation, please visit www.twbwf.org .