DU Surpasses Conservation Milestone

by
posted on June 3, 2024
LEDEDU Logo

For the first time in its 87-year history, Ducks Unlimited has delivered one-million acres of conservation across North America in a single year, thanks to more than a million supporters and partners including private landowners, hunters, corporations, major donors, and state and federal agencies. This achievement happened in fiscal year 2024 and reflects a national surge in public and private interest to restore and protect wetland habitats.

One million acres of conservation—about the area of Rhode Island—includes long-term and permanent projects, such as conservation restorations and easements, in addition to short-term or annual efforts—including agricultural cover crop programs, as well as both new and revisited project sites. The announcement was made during Ducks Unlimited’s 87th National Convention in San Diego, Calif. Since its founding, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 18 million acres.

“One million acres of tangible conservation in one year is an achievement that’s nearly 90 years in the making,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam. “This is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated staff and volunteers following years of exponential conservation growth. We don’t just advocate for wetlands - our mission moves dirt. Ducks see it. Communities see it. Partners see it. Each acre represents in-the-field success. Combined with our most ambitious comprehensive campaign in history, Conservation For a Continent, DU members and supporters are more motivated than ever before to make an impact on the wetlands and waterfowl we love.”

The historic international fundraising campaign, “Conservation For a Continent. Our Wetlands. Our Legacy,” aims to raise $3 billion by 2026 to provide cleaner water for communities and wildlife. One of the largest fundraising efforts launched in North America devoted to landscape conservation and the future of our outdoors heritage, the campaign recently surpassed the $2 billion mark with two years remaining.

Also announced was a $100 million gift to support conservation in honor of Jim Kennedy, chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises and chairman of the James M. Cox Foundation. The gift will help support protection and restoration efforts of North America’s Prairie Pothole Region. Jim Kennedy is DU’s largest supporter, has been a volunteer with Ducks Unlimited for over 50 years, has served on its board of directors and was Wetlands America Trust’s founding president. The gift directly supports the continental campaign and prepares DU to conserve millions more acres of habitat.

"Wetlands provide many services to our communities, including flood storage, groundwater recharge, carbon sequestration, enhanced fish habitat and more," said DU chief conservation officer Dr. Karen Waldrop. "But we can’t do this alone. The unprecedented success during FY24 is because of DU’s industry-leading partnerships with state and federal agencies, private corporations, farmers and individual donors.”

For more information about DU’s continuing wetlands conservation work across North America, visit ducks.org.

Latest

LEDE Safe Gun Storage After Hunting Season
LEDE Safe Gun Storage After Hunting Season

Safe Gun Storage After Hunting Season

With the close of deer seasons, many hunters have stored their firearms. While the basics of gun safety are covered in hunter education programs, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) recently issued a reminder that storage out of season should be reviewed by sportsmen.

Federal Ammunition Adds 10mm Auto to Power-Shok Line

Federal Ammunition has added a new 10mm Auto, 200-grain Jacketed Soft Point (JSP) load to its Handgun Hunting Power-Shok ammunition product line.

#SundayGunday: Colt Kodiak

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re taking a look at the 4.25-inch barreled Colt Kodiak revolver. Chambered in hard-charging .44 Magnum, this surprisingly smooth shooter is the perfect companion for the backcountry hunter in bear country.

Remington Ammunition Announces Pull, Shoot, Save! Shotshell Rebate

Remington Ammunition recently announced its Pull, Shoot, Save! Rebatewhich offers consumers the chance to buy some of Remington’s best target loads and receive up to $50 back. This promotion runs through June 30, 2025.

XS Sights Introduces Handguard for Henry Lever-Action Rifles

Designed for modern lever-action enthusiast who want to upgrade their Henry rifle, this highly customizable handguard is equipped with six M-LOK slots on each side and seven on the bottom to accommodate a wide array of accessories.

Montana FWP Announces 2025 Migratory Bird Stamp

A trio of tundra swans winging their way through a gray sky in the shadows of Rocky Mountain peaks is captured brilliantly in the 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.