ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites waterfowl and wildlife artists to enter two annual competitions. Artists have until April 15 to submit original artwork for next year’s black bear and migratory game bird stamps.

The game bird stamp is part of the hunter licensing process. Hunters must buy the stamps to legally shoot waterfowl and other migratory game birds. The proceeds help fund migratory bird and waterfowl projects and research.

The black bear stamp is a collectible item that is not part of the licensing process. Proceeds from stamp sales help compensate farmers who incur crop damage from bears.

State judges will choose the winners April 22 at the Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival in Ocean City, Maryland.

___

Stamp art contest: http://1.usa.gov/1Oplego

Copyright 2015 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This information may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.