MANSFIELD, CT — A Mansfield eighth grader's artwork will appear on the 2027 Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp, according to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
The DEEP announced that an acrylic painting of a common goldeneye taking flight, created by Mansfield resident Megan Song, was selected as Best of Show in the 2026 Connecticut Junior Duck Stamp Art Competition. The painting, titled "Taking Off from Water," also earned first place in the 7th-9th grade category.
The DEEP said the artwork will represent Connecticut in the Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest.
The state stamp program dates to the early 1990s, when sportsmen and sportswomen worked with the DEEP to develop legislation aimed at generating funding for wetland conservation. Modeled after the federal Duck Stamp Program, Connecticut's program requires waterfowl hunters to buy a state Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp in addition to a hunting license.
By law, money from stamp sales is dedicated only to the conservation, management and acquisition of waterfowl habitat and wetlands, along with related recreational rights and interests. DEEP said the program supports wetland conservation through those purchases.
"The Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp Program highlights how hunters and outdoor enthusiasts directly support conservation efforts across Connecticut," DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. "The Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp is a vital source of funding for wetland projects, protecting critical habitat that supports waterfowl along with many other plants and animals. Congratulations to Megan on a beautiful painting that will be featured on next year’s stamp! Thanks to all of the artists who submitted artwork for consideration, and thank you to everyone who purchased a stamp to support conservation here in Connecticut."
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