From Duck Stamp Champion to Duck Rescuer: Madison Grimm’s Conservation Journey (Ep 814)

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Winning the Junior Duck Stamp Contest changed Madison Grimm’s life. Now she’s helping save hundreds of ducks...

Host Katie Burke is joined by wildlife artists Adam Grimm and Madison Grimm during the Federal Duck Stamp Contest to discuss art, conservation, and how a childhood passion for painting ducks led to one of the most unique waterfowl projects in the country.

The conversation begins with the Duck Stamp Contest and the challenges artists face when competing at the highest level. From there, Madison shares the remarkable story behind Second Chance Flight, a nonprofit that rescues duck eggs and ducklings displaced during farming operations across the Prairie Pothole Region. What started with a backyard aviary has grown into a conservation effort involving farmers, wildlife agencies, researchers, banding projects, and even GPS-equipped ducks helping answer important scientific questions.

This episode is equal parts art, conservation, and innovation—and a reminder that one person’s passion can create real impact for waterfowl.

Topics Covered

The 2026 Federal Duck Stamp ContestHow judges evaluate Duck Stamp artworkMadison Grimm’s Junior Duck Stamp successBuilding a backyard aviary in the Prairie Pothole RegionThe origins of Second Chance FlightRescuing duck eggs, ducklings, pheasants, and turkeysWorking with farmers across South DakotaGPS transmitters, banding, and waterfowl researchThe future of conservation through community involvement