Where Art Meets Conservation: Students Shine in 2026-2027 Junior Duck Stamp Competition

Oil‑painted feathers perched on a still pond, mottled acrylic daubs on the breast of a flying Northern Shoveler, and spirited renditions of North American waterfowl. All on display at the Virginia Junior Duck Stamp Contest held on March 28. The talent and passion showcased by the young artists were unmistakable in their artwork, as was their pride in the species they chose to represent. 

Each year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) hosts national contests to select the new Federal Duck Stamps. This year, BLM staff at the Lower Potomac Field Station were invited to help with judging submissions for Virginia and Delaware Junior Duck Stamp contests. Ryan Jackson, Outdoor Recreation Planner, assisted the event host, and Administrative Support Assistant Olivia Rivas served as a judge. 

The Junior Duck Stamp Contest invites submissions from students in grades K–12, with more than 13,000 young artists participating nationwide this year. The winning entry becomes the 2026–2027 Junior Duck Stamp, which is sold for $5. Proceeds support youth environmental education, outdoor recreation, and wetland conservation. 

Students were required to choose from a list of eligible North American bird species and follow strict submission guidelines to ensure the winning artwork could function successfully as a stamp. They also contributed a short conservation message. This year’s winning message came from 13‑year‑old Iris Lovett of Wisconsin: “The future of wildlife reflects our care—give ducks a place to land.” 

Nationally, the 2024–2025 Junior Duck Stamp winner was 17‑year‑old Nina Liang of Texas, who painted an oil portrait of a Blue‑winged Teal. Virginia’s top artist, 15‑year‑old Etrid Wang, placed 14th overall with an oil painting of a Harlequin Duck. 

This years’ Duck Stamp collaboration went so well that FWS invited the Lower Potomac Field Station to continue hosting future Virginia and Delaware contests—an opportunity that strengthens partnerships, deepens community engagement and advances conservation. Staff are already looking forward to supporting the 2027–2028 contest.