Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has included an item in his budget that has been on waterfowl hunter’s wish list for some time: an increase in the price of the state’s duck stamp.

In a survey of Delta members conducted last August, 95.5 percent of respondents supported the increase. Wisconsin hunters recognize that increased stamp revenues will ultimately lead to greater habitat gains and conservation efforts, as well as enhanced public hunting areas.

As proposed, the price of the stamp would rise from $7 to $12, and would be the first increase since 1997.

“We sincerely appreciate the leadership support of Gov. Evers for a duck stamp increase,” said John Devney, senior vice president of Delta Waterfowl. “Having identified the duck stamp in his budget demonstrates not only his personal commitment to the issue, but also the value and benefits stamp projects represent for duck hunters and all the citizens of Wisconsin. We look forward to working with members in both the Assembly and the Senate to pass legislation that provides for the increase.”

Delta Waterfowl staff and volunteers have been working with Ducks Unlimited, Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, Green Bay Duck Hunters Association, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and Wisconsin Conservation Congress to secure the increase.

While duck stamp revenues have been fixed for more than two decades, the costs to conserve, enhance and manage habitat have increased substantially. As a result, the buying power of the duck stamp has decreased substantially. The proposed increase is expected to generate an additional $400,000 in stamp revenues each year.

Delta Waterfowl is The Duck Hunters Organization, a leading conservation group working to produce ducks and ensure the future of duck hunting in North America. Visit deltawaterfowl.org.