DING DARLING
 

Des Moines, Iowa sports and outdoor writer.

And cartoonist and a conservation leader who was actively involved in the creation of the "duck stamp" and a design drawn by him was issued as the first one

Ding was an editorial cartoonist and head of the Biological Survey, a precursor of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. He conceived of the Duck Stamp as a method of raising funds for waterfowl conservation. He designed the first duck stamp as well.

The originator of the Duck Stamp program. Was originally a political cartoonist Later became, I think, the first Secretary of the Interior. His duck stamp program formed the financial basis for the Wildlife Refuge System (you can still show your duck stamp and gain access to any refuge free).

The Ding Darling Refuge on Sanibel Island, Florida is a treasure. Ride or bike along the 5 mile road, or take any of a number of walking paths and go into the main visitor center and see a recreation of Ding's office and view a lot of his work.

Wow, been to Sanibel and Captiva many times and did not know that. That's why I llike this forum. Always learning something new!!! :D:D:D

i never heard of mr ding until now..a great man with vision for sure thanks mr ding...charlie

First duck stamp signed by him

The J.N. Ding Darling preserve in Sanibel is stunning - and I have several photos in their museum and welcome center. Jen & I usually go to Sanibel several times a year - and spend way too many hours at that National Refuge. As well - I have hundreds of photos from there in my galleries.

If you've never visited - you are missing something incredible..

John

very nice stamp...and just a dollar i think i ll get a book of these tommorrw..mr ding was a man of vision for sure we owe him a lot...i gave 15 dollars for my duckstamp this year.i think the first one i bought was 2.50 and the last one was 5.00. i ve really enjoyed what few duck hunts i ve went on this year..who knows me and mr ding mite meet up duck hunting one day in a far off place...charlie