Ohio to Issue 2027 Wildlife Legacy Stamp on March 1
The 2027 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp will showcase a gray fox photograph captured in Washington County.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Wildlife
Live Poll
Do you believe purchasing wildlife stamps is an effective way to support conservation in your community?
Beginning March 1, 2027, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife will offer its annual legacy stamp for $15. This year's edition features a gray fox image captured by Todd Hawkins, who won the 18th annual photo contest.
Why it matters
Sales of the stamp support the Wildlife Diversity Fund, providing essential financial resources for state habitat restoration and research initiatives. Additionally, a portion of each purchase is dedicated to the Southern Wings program, which aids in the protection of migratory birds.
The 2027 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp is priced at $15, with $1 from every sale specifically allocated to the Southern Wings program. The contest drew 99 entries for the mammal-themed competition.
The players
Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife
This state agency is responsible for the management and conservation of fish and wildlife resources throughout Ohio.
Todd Hawkins
The Marietta resident won the 18th annual photo contest with his gray fox image.
Diana Yatson
The Strongsville resident earned second place in the contest for her photography of a river otter.
Troy Nemitz
The Milan resident placed third in the competition for his photo of a red fox.
The details
The winning gray fox photo was selected by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife based on its composition, originality, beauty, and technical excellence. Diana Yatson and Troy Nemitz secured second and third place, respectively, for their photographs of a river otter and a red fox.
Timeline
March 1, 2027: Sale of the 2027 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp begins.
Culture Shift
The annual stamp contest reflects a growing societal focus on conservation and state-level engagement with native wildlife. This program channels public enthusiasm for nature photography into consistent financial support for the Wildlife Diversity Fund.
Residents can purchase the new stamp for $15 to support state-managed research and habitat restoration. By participating, individuals contribute directly to regional conservation goals and the protection of migratory bird species.
The takeaway
The selection of a gray fox for the 2027 stamp highlights the diversity of Ohio's mammals as a central focus for upcoming conservation initiatives. Collectors and nature enthusiasts can support these efforts by purchasing the commemorative stamp when it releases this spring.
What happens next
The 2027 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp will be available for purchase starting March 1, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on state conservation efforts, visit Ohio Wildlife.
More information
To download the mail-in stamp form, visit the department portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tribune Chronicle, Warren OH.
Live Poll
Do you believe purchasing wildlife stamps is an effective way to support conservation in your community?
