Minnesota artist James Hautman won the federal duck stamp contest for the fourth time on a tie-breaking vote — beating his brother, Robert, a two-time winner himself.

The winner was announced Saturday in Berkeley, Calif. Hautman won in 1989, 1994 and 1998. His acrylic painting of a pair of white-fronted geese will be made into the 2011-2012 stamp, which will go on sale in late June 2011. The stamp raises about $25 million each year to provide funds for conserving wetlands.

In the final round of judging of the 235 entries, the Hautmans’ paintings were tied for first place. A tie-breaker vote was held to determine the winner.  

“I’ll tell you what, it just leaves you speechless,” said James Hautman, who was in the auditorium as the judges voted. “Even though I’ve won it before, it’s tough to breathe sitting out there.”