Chris Medrano of Fillmore winning honorable mention in the Junior Federal Duck Stamp contest.

Artwork from over 3,500 school-aged waterfowl artists throughout the state was judged during the 22nd Annual California Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest (Contest) in Chico, on Thursday, March 29th. In California, the Federal Junior Duck Stamp Program is coordinated by Marilyn Gamette and facilitated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex (SNWRC).

A panel of 10 judges was tasked with selecting 100 winners. The artwork was judged in four age groups: K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. From these groups, three 1st, three 2nd, three 3rd place, and 16 honorable mention winners were chosen. Winning designs receive ribbons and all entrants will receive a certificate of appreciation and awards.

One art design earned the distinguished title of California’s Best of Show, which is a pair of Hooded Mergansers, by 17 year old Hyun Wang from Torrance, CA and attends Green Art Studio. Her artwork will be submitted to Washington D.C. to compete with the other states’ Best of Show winners during the National Junior Duck Stamp Design Contest at the Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, MD, on April 20, 2012. The national winner’s design will be made into the 2012-2013 Federal Junior Duck Stamp.

In addition, three conservation messages were selected from each age group to receive awards. These messages were submitted on the artwork entry form and judged for originality, understanding of wetland and waterfowl conservation, and inspiration. All 100 winning artwork entries and 12 winning conservation messages will be on display throughout the year at various California events.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.