The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting local artists to enter their annual wildlife stamp design contest for the 2026 hunting season. These stamps are required for bird hunters targeting turkey, pheasant, and waterfowl in the state.
The contest blends art with conservation, as the money from stamp sales supports species management, including habitat restoration, research, and education—raising hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Department of Natural Resources is giving artists until August 1, to submit their designs. Judging will take place at the Waterfowl Hunters Expo in Oshkosh on August 23, where attendees can check out the designs while the judges make their decisions.
Last year’s winners were familiar names in Wisconsin’s art scene: Robert Leum from Holmen won both the Wild Turkey and Pheasant stamp contests, while Jon Rickaby of Suamico took home the Waterfowl stamp with what was probably a stunning bird design. Aspiring entrants should take note— the DNR has emphasized the importance of following the contest rules and technical requirements, which are detailed on their Wildlife Stamp Funding and Design Contest webpage.
