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Lynx
Let Loose - Do Something Wild!
Learn about the Colorado Tax Check-off Program

If you don't buy hunting or fishing licenses or equipment, the Colorado Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund Checkoff is an easy way to support Colorado's conservation efforts.

Colorado was the first state to implement a tax check-off program for nongame, threatened, and endangered species. About 80% of our state’s species are nongame—they are species that aren't hunted, trapped or fished for. Funds from the check-off program have helped recover peregrine falcons, bald eagles, river otters, boreal toads, and razorback suckers in the Colorado River, and, most recently, reintroduction of Canada lynx. See the Do Something Wild page for more information and a form to give to your tax preparer showing your contribution.

This funding source relies upon voluntary donations from the public and is tax-deductible (and does not increase your tax). Over the years, cumulative taxpayer donations have exceeded $7,500,000 and have made the difference in protecting Colorado species. We have not had species become extinct in Colorado in recent years, in large measure because of the check-off donations. Your decision to check the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife fund box on your 2009 Colorado Income Tax Return will continue to make a difference!

Enter the 2010 Waterfowl Stamp Contest

The 2009 Waterfowl Stamp winner "Golden Colorado" by artist Craig Fairbert which depicts Barrow’s Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica) ducks.The Colorado Division of Wildlife is now accepting original artwork for the 2010 Colorado Waterfowl Stamp Art Contest. The Division of Wildlife will accept entries until the Friday, March 5, 2010 contest deadline and winning entries will be announced by Monday, March 29, 2010.

Celebrating its twentieth year, the Colorado Waterfowl Stamp program holds an annual contest for original waterfowl artwork featured on the Colorado Waterfowl Stamp. Cash prizes are awarded for the top three entries, but only the first-place selection is depicted on the stamp. Read the full press release for more information.

The Northern pintail--a common dabbling duck that migrates to Colorado's wetlands each fall--is this year's featured species. Renowned for its beautiful white and chocolate-brown plumage, the pintail derives its name from its long, pointed, "pin-like," tail feathers.

All revenue generated from the program is used to fund wetlands projects throughout the state. Check out the Colorado Waterfowl Stamp program page for more details.