January 10, 2013

Chickadee Checkoff box on state income tax return to benefit wildlife

PRATT – A 33-year-old tradition will continue this tax season as the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) launches the 2013 Chickadee Checkoff Program. State taxpayers can help threatened and endangered species, as well as game and nongame wildlife when filing this year simply by marking the Chickadee Checkoff box on their state income tax forms. Individuals designate the exact amount they want to donate on the form, allowing state taxpayers to contribute as little or as much as they would like.

Each year, proceeds from the Chickadee Checkoff Program fund wildlife programs and initiatives, as well as numerous species assessments and habitat surveys statewide. Programs such as the Outdoor Wildlife Learning Sites (OWLS) at Kansas schools, Kansas Backyard Wildlife Habitat Improvement and Certification Program, and the Nursing Home Bird Feeder Program all benefit from Chickadee Checkoff proceeds. In addition, donations support much needed projects like the Prairie Windows project, Bluebird Nest Box Project, and Songbird Bundle habitat planting.

State taxpayer donations are crucial in funding these vital programs, especially when Chickadee Checkoff proceeds are matched by federal funds. Contributions have been steadily decreasing in recent years, making it imperative that every Kansan mark the Chickadee Checkoff box this year. With the help of the Kansas Society of Certified Public Accountants (KSCPA), KDWPT hopes to make 2013 a banner year for donations. Get the form, check the box, and ensure that all Kansas wildlife will have a safe and healthy future.

For more information, please visit the KDWPT website www.ksoutdoors.com and click “Other Services/Wildlife Diversity/Chickadee Checkoff.”

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