WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, USA Rice and Ducks Unlimited co-hosted the annual Federal Duck Stamp Reception, showcasing the strong relationship between rice and ducks, and to promote ongoing conservation efforts.
The event celebrated the 12th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Stewardship Partnership, a unique alliance through which both organizations work to help rice farmers address water quantity, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working ricelands.
More than 200 congressional staff, government officials, and industry representatives attended this year’s reception, where guests enjoyed sushi, rice-based beverages, and the opportunity to purchase their
2025/26 Federal Duck Stamps.
Federal Duck Stamps are required for waterfowl hunters 16 and older and include free admission to all national wildlife refuges across the country, with 98 percent of all proceeds directly allocated towards conservation efforts, including the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, protecting critical habitats for ducks, geese, and other migratory species.
“The USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Federal Duck Stamp Reception is an annual highlight on Capitol Hill that is a great opportunity to showcase the stewardship efforts of rice farmers and celebrate how partnerships like ours are helping secure a more sustainable future for both agriculture and wildlife,” said Jake Westlin, USA Rice vice president of government affairs. “We appreciate all who attended to celebrate the monumental successes of the Rice Stewardship Partnership and the beneficial impacts it has had during its 12-year tenure.”
The Rice Stewardship Partnership has forged a historic model of collaboration between a farm group and a conservation organization. Since its inception in 2013, the Partnership has impacted more than 800,000 acres of rice and rice rotation ground.