California State Duck Stamp Project Solicitation

The California State Duck Stamp funding program, managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), is an initiative authorized under the Fish and Game Code §3702 to support the conservation of migratory waterfowl and their habitats. Established in 1971, the program is funded through the sale of duck stamps required for waterfowl hunting and for collectors. Proceeds are deposited into the State Duck Stamp Account, which is used exclusively for approved conservation efforts, particularly those that support breeding and wintering habitats for waterfowl in California and contributing Canadian territories. The program aims to support projects that protect, preserve, restore, enhance, and develop habitat for migratory waterfowl. It also supports the evaluation of these habitats and conducts resource assessments and waterfowl-related research. Eligible projects can include habitat enhancement on public lands, development of brood ponds, improvements to water control infrastructure, invasive species removal, and scientific studies on habitat needs or population dynamics. Reimbursement for completed habitat projects by nonprofits is also allowable under this funding mechanism. The Department is soliciting proposals for Fiscal Year 2026, with approximately $1,939,000 available, contingent on the Governor’s budget. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local and state government agencies, and federal agencies with the demonstrated capacity to undertake waterfowl habitat projects or research. A maximum of 6% of awarded funds may be used for overhead costs, and a portion of the revenue ($2.25 per stamp) is allocated to support the North American Waterfowl Management Plan in key Canadian regions. Applicants must use the prescribed application template, ensuring a maximum of three pages for habitat projects including maps and budget. Proposals must be submitted by January 23, 2026, via email or postmarked by that date. The selection process includes administrative, advisory committee, and technical reviews, with applications scored based on defined evaluation criteria such as scientific merit, habitat benefit, cost-sharing, and coordination with relevant authorities. Key timeline milestones include proposal submissions by January 23, 2026; advisory committee review in February; internal scoring in March; and award recommendations submitted to the Commission by May. Final award notifications are expected by June 30, 2026. Funded applicants must complete additional forms before agreements are executed, and no costs incurred before execution will be reimbursed. All environmental compliance responsibilities lie with the grantee.

Coordinate with agency staff on public lands; native upland seed requirements; project openness to public hunting increases score; avoid NAWCA for match.