Ducks Unlimited Names Wyoming’s Volunteer of the Year

Ducks Unlimited

CASPER, Wyo. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited recognized Brian Balfour of Casper for his outstanding contributions to the organization in Wyoming.

Balfour has been volunteering his time to the Casper and Powder River DU chapters for 20 years and recently joined the Wyoming DU Special Waterfowl Action Team (SWAT) that helps chapters around the state when they are shorthanded.

“Brian is a model volunteer,” said Robert Hathaway, DU regional director for Wyoming. “He is very good at troubleshooting problems and overcoming tough obstacles, which are qualities we value in our volunteers.”

Balfour manages the firearm transactions for both chapters and is a top ticket seller for their events. He is often accompanied by his wife, Susan, who also volunteers her time with DU.

“Brian is extremely dependable and we can always count on him to get the job done,” said Lucy Pate, member of the Casper DU committee. “We are all fortunate to have a huge asset like Brian on our team.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited Continental Shoot announced in Las Vegas

Ducks Unlimited

Las Vegas --(Ammoland.com)- Competitive sporting clay shooters are encouraged to register now for the 2012 Ducks Unlimited Las Vegas Continental Shoot.

The annual event will take place Feb. 23-26, 2012, at the Pro Gun Club in Boulder City, Nev., formerly known as Desert Hills Shooting Club.

All events will be governed by National Sporting Clays Association rules. The main event, as well as the 12-gauge prelim and the 50-target five-stand event, will run seven NSCA classes. Prizes will be provided by Browning and Winchester, including AA Winchester target loads. Shooters can use any NSCA-compliant shells to compete.

“Ducks Unlimited is excited to celebrate the clay target shooting sports with another National Shoot,” said Jim Konkel, chair of Ducks Unlimited’s national shooting committee.

“There is a guaranteed gun and ammo prize package that should lead to a very competitive field.”

In the 100-target prelim and the 200-target main event, payouts will include event champion, seven NSCA classes (M, AA, A, B, C, D and E) and one Hunter Lewis class for every 30 hunter entries.

Shooters are encouraged to register at www.chshootresults.com/dudesert12.html. For additional information, call (661) 992-2941, visit www.ducks.org/shoot or email shoot@ducks.org. Early bird registration ends Feb. 2.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited And Partners Rededicate Wetlands Restoration Project

Ducks Unlimited

MONTICELLO, Fl --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited and partners from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and Jefferson County recently gathered to install a new sign and rededicate a wetlands enhancement project at Lake Miccosukee in celebration of DU’s 75th anniversary.

Lake Miccosukee, a 6,312-acre Jefferson County lake west of Monticello, is managed by the FWC and the Northwest Florida Water Management District to maintain high-quality wetland habitat for waterfowl while also providing public hunting opportunities.

A project replacing a non-functional water-control structure was completed in 1998 to enhance management capabilities in the area, and was chosen for special recognition leading up to DU’s 75th-anniversary year due to its continued successful operation and importance to waterfowl in northern Florida.

“Lake Miccosukee is an important wintering area for ring-necked ducks in the Atlantic Flyway,” said Craig LeSchack, DU director of conservation programs. “The area also provides brood-rearing habitat for wood ducks and some of the finest duck hunting opportunities in northern Florida.”

The Lake Miccosukee project is one of several projects being recognized across the country to celebrate DU’s upcoming 75th-anniversary year.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

AMES, IOWA --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited has hired engineer Rick Verchota to assist with DU’s efforts in Iowa and surrounding states.

DU’s conservation programs in Iowa have recently expanded to include a $9 million, multi-year partnership that includes restoring habitat through the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP).

Verchota has come on board to help meet that demand.

“I’m excited about joining the DU team and look forward to working with our partners in Iowa and the surrounding states to accomplish our waterfowl habitat conservation goals,” Verchota said.

Verchota is stationed in Nora Springs and will be responsible for coordinating with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, landowners and contractors to facilitate DU’s delivery of WRP acres. Verchota will oversee and manage on-the-ground conservation project implementation and add valuable in-state capacity and expertise to this program. He will also assist DU’s regional surveying, engineering and construction staff with other habitat projects.

Verchota is a registered professional engineer with a civil engineering degree from Iowa State University. He recently retired from the Iowa Department of Transportation after holding various leadership positions during a successful 24-year career. Verchota is also a long-time DU supporter and active volunteer.

“We welcome Rick to the Ducks Unlimited family, and we look forward to seeing him apply his skills to restoring wetlands and other waterfowl habitats in Iowa,” said Doug Lipetzky, DU senior regional engineer.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge

Ducks Unlimited

ANN ARBOR, Mich. --(Ammoland.com)- Stakeholders in the Saginaw Bay watershed are seeing positive environmental impacts this fall thanks to work completed by Ducks Unlimited and others.

DU and its partners recently celebrated the completion of the first-ever Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) habitat conservation project, which restored 141 acres of wetlands in the Flint River floodplain at Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge.

The project was made possible by a $99,750 grant awarded to DU through GLRI, a federal program designed to target the most significant problems in the Great Lakes ecosystem, including habitat conservation, invasive aquatic species, non-point source pollution and contaminated sediment.

The celebratory crowd gathered at Shiawassee Flats in blustery weather to hear speakers from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan’s Office of the Great Lakes, representatives from U.S. Sens. Stabenow and Levin, representatives from Michigan Reps. Camp and Kildee and the Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative network.

“This restoration has two important impacts,” said Dane Cramer, regional biologist at DU’s Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office. “The restored floodplain itself will provide migration habitat for waterfowl and other wetland-dependent species, and it will also improve water quality in the Flint River as it moves downstream, eventually to the Saginaw Bay.”

DU partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network to complete this wetland restoration. The grant was awarded through the Upper Mississippi River & Great Lakes Region Joint Venture, the conservation-coordinating body that delivers strategies and tools for protecting all bird species to implementation partners. This year, additional grant funding was provided through the GLRI.

“We talk about it all of the time, but wetlands really are incredibly beneficial habitats,” said Gildo Tori, Ducks Unlimited director of public policy. “Besides the support for wildlife, this project will provide flood control and filter water that goes into Saginaw Bay, and the restoration itself provided jobs for local contractors. It’s a real win-win.”

The project lies within the Shiawassee Flats (Flats), a 40,000-acre floodplain wetland complex formed by the confluence of the Bad, Cass, Flint, Shiawassee and Tittabawassee rivers. The Flats include a diverse mix of natural and managed wetlands that historically have been a critical waterfowl and waterbird stopover area in the Great Lakes region. The Flats provide many additional ecological and societal benefits, including habitat for other wetland-dependent fish and wildlife, flood control and abatement, water quality improvement and areas for outdoor recreation and education.

Cameron Davis, Great Lakes senior advisor to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, addressed the crowd. He urged attendees to note that progress in small increments adds up “acre by acre, gallon by gallon, mile by mile.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

RIDGELAND, Miss --(Ammoland.com)- The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission recently awarded seven grants for projects that will restore and protect vital waterfowl habitat across the Southeast.

The grants are being awarded through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), which is a cost-effective, bipartisan, match-based program that has raised an average of 3.2 non-federal dollars for every federal dollar invested.

“Though the MBCC has approved these grants, Congress must still authorize funding for NAWCA in order for the projects to move forward,” Director of Operations for DU’s Southern Region Curtis Hopkins explained.

“In the Southeast, the approved grants would enhance more than 27,500 acres, including projects in North and South Carolina, Virginia, Missouri and Texas.”

Every dollar of federal money allotted to NAWCA must be matched by one or more dollars from non-federal sources such as Ducks Unlimited, state fish and wildlife agencies, businesses, or private landowners. Because this program is so effective, funds are often tripled or quadrupled at the local level. The seven grants in the Southeast represent a NAWCA investment of $6.8 million and a partner investment of $24.5 million, a leveraging rate of more than 3.5 times private to federal funds.

“Clearly, the investment of NAWCA funds is an extremely effective and fiscally efficient tool for conservation,” Hopkins said.

Since NAWCA’s inception in 1989, more than 2,067 projects have contributed to the conservation of more than 26 million acres of habitat across North America. While NAWCA is a strongly supported and highly effective program, it is currently facing deep budget cuts in Congress for fiscal year 2012. The House has proposed cutting NAWCA funding by up to $14 million from its fiscal year 2011 level. A funding cut of this proportion could seriously jeopardize the program’s ability to conserve prime waterfowl habitat.

“Reducing the deficit and ensuring that our nation is financially secure are actions that Ducks Unlimited supports,” DU Director of Governmental Affairs Scott Sutherland said. “However, especially in a time of tight budgets, Congress should support programs that provide good value and bring significant income to local communities, businesses and state and federal treasuries. NAWCA is one of those programs.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge

Ducks Unlimited

Ann Arbor, Mich. --(Ammoland.com)- A $1.5 million grant will make an impressive impact on conservation in the Saginaw Bay region of Michigan with the help of Ducks Unlimited.

DU has been awarded funds to restore emergent wetlands to 940 acres of land currently in agricultural use at Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge.

The $1.5 million grant was formally awarded by Sustain Our Great Lakes at a ceremony that took place at Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge in Trenton, Mich. on Friday. SOGL awarded the funds through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the federal program designed to target the most significant problems in the Great Lakes ecosystem, including habitat conservation, invasive aquatic species, non-point source pollution and contaminated sediment.

The project lies within the Shiawassee Flats, a 40,000-acre floodplain wetland complex formed by the confluence of the Bad, Cass, Flint, Shiawassee, and Tittabawassee Rivers. The Flats include a diversity of natural and managed wetlands that have historically been a critical waterfowl and waterbird stopover area in the Great Lakes region. The Flats also provide many additional ecological and societal benefits, including habitat for other wetland-dependent fish and wildlife, flood control and abatement, water quality improvement, and areas for outdoor-based recreation and education.

This restoration has two important impacts. The restored wetlands will provide a key connection between other restored wetlands and the Shiawassee River, providing valuable habitat for fish, waterfowl, and other wetland-dependant species. It will also improve water quality as it moves downstream towards the Saginaw Bay.

Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network and Dow Chemical Company provided financial support. DU also received letters of support from several sources including U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, United States Geological Survey, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Saginaw Bay WIN, and the Shiawassee Flats Citizens and Hunters Association. The grant was awarded through the Sustain Our Great Lakes, whose mission is to sustain, restore, and protect fish, wildlife, and habitat in the Great Lakes basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues.

“Restorations of this magnitude are difficult to come by not only in the Saginaw Bay watershed, but anywhere in the Great Lakes basin,” said Dane Cramer, regional biologist at DU’s Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office. “This project will make appreciable impacts to the thousands of waterfowl that migrate through Saginaw Bay and the Shiawassee Flats area every spring and autumn as well as important fish species and other wetland denizens.”

With more than a million supporters, Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest and most effective wetland and waterfowl conservation organization with more than 12 million acres conserved. The United States alone has lost more than half of its original wetlands − nature’s most productive ecosystem − and continues to lose more than 80,000 wetland acres each year.

Louisiana Has Record Waterfowl Harvest

Ducks Unlimited

LAFAYETTE, LA --(Ammoland.com)- Waterfowl hunters harvested more than 2.7 million ducks in Louisiana during the 2010-11 waterfowl season, more than any other state, according to the recently released annual U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Migratory Bird Hunting Activity and Harvest report.

“Conserving waterfowl habitats in Louisiana has long been one of Ducks Unlimited’s highest priorities,” Bob Dew, DU manager of conservation programs, said.

“More ducks were harvested in Louisiana last season than in the entire Atlantic or Central Flyways! If that doesn’t convey the continental importance of Louisiana as wintering waterfowl habitat, I don’t know what does.”

Louisiana’s harvest accounts for 18 percent of the United States harvest. Arkansas had the second highest harvest in the Mississippi Flyway with 1.4 million ducks. Factoring in hunter numbers, Louisiana’s harvest equated to 30.6 ducks harvested per hunter for the season.

“That is a big increase in our hunter success from the year before,” Larry Reynolds, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Waterfowl Study Leader, said. “Last season provided some great duck hunting in Louisiana, and given the increased populations and wetland conditions on the breeding grounds, we are hoping for another excellent season.”

However, waterfowlers should remember there are a multitude of factors that influence migration patterns as well as individual hunting success. Weather patterns are often the greatest driving force for waterfowl, and last winter’s weather patterns pushed waterfowl south with hard freezes and snow cover to the north. Local habitat conditions, particularly local rainfall patterns that influence habitat availability, also play a critical role in hunter success.

Last fall and winter there were significant efforts related to the Deepwater Horizon disaster to provide habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds. The effort resulted in significant habitat in southwest Louisiana throughout fall and winter due to the Migratory Bird Habitat Initiative, while southeast Louisiana marshes were under the influence of a high river with open freshwater diversions.

“Ducks Unlimited’s partnership with private landowners, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Natural Resources Conservation Service put about 80,000 acres of water on the ground in drought-stricken southwest Louisiana in time for the fall flights,” Dew said. “And the freshwater pouring into southeast coastal marshes encouraged excellent submersed aquatic vegetation growth, an important food resource for waterfowl, in that portion of the state.”

Last year’s breeding populations were above long term averages for most species, so waterfowl production should have been very good. Add to that late fall and winter weather patterns that pushed ducks south where they were greeted by locally excellent habitat conditions, and you have great harvest potential. Additionally, USFWS data also suggest that Louisiana had an increase in hunter numbers last year – more than 9,000 more than the previous year – and an increase in hunter effort – more than 130,000 more days afield – and the result is a near perfect combination of factors leading to Louisiana’s record harvest.

The coming waterfowl season is shaping up to be promising as well. The breeding ground population surveys and wetland pond counts showed great breeding pair numbers and habitat conditions. Flooding along the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers has provided significant freshwater inputs, and river levels remain high so stands of submersed aquatic vegetation attractive to ducks should be developing nicely. Also, most of the habitat created through the MBHI program will be provided again for waterfowl in the rice prairie region.

“With the wet conditions on the breeding grounds, duck hunters should be excited about the upcoming season,” Dew said. “But some areas of Louisiana are very dry and very salty, which will have an effect on habitat conditions locally. Keep your fingers crossed for some rain and cold fall and winter weather up north.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

MCCLUSKY, N.D. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited recently partnered with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and others to purchase a 2,542 acre Wildlife Management Area in Caroline County, Virginia.

The site was purchased in late 2010 and will be open for public use, including waterfowl hunting in 2011. Of the acres purchased, 820 consist of wetlands that provide resources for waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife species.

Ducks Unlimited provided $30,000 in funding toward the $2.4 million purchase of Mattaponi WMA. In addition to numerous other funding avenues, VDGIF used $400,000 from the Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Stamp Fund, which is derived from the sale of Virginia Duck Stamps, to protect this diverse landscape in the headwaters of the Mattaponi River.

“Mattaponi WMA boasts excellent habitat for wildlife, including expansive wetlands that are critical for waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife species in Virginia,” said DU regional biologist Ben Lewis. “Ducks Unlimited is proud to partner with VDGIF on this acquisition and pleased to help provide additional public hunting opportunities to Virginia residents.”

Other partners include The Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through the Federal Assistance in Wildlife Restoration Program, The Trust for Public Land and the U.S. Department of Defense through their Army Compatible Use Buffer Program.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

ANN ARBOR, Mich. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited expressed appreciation for U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow’s (MI) Great Lakes conservation effort directed towards Saginaw Bay and the basin of western Lake Erie.

The senator is chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.

The effort is being administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service through existing Farm Bill conservation programs, and will dedicate technical and financial assistance to landowners and producers to implement a range of conservation practices that benefit the Great Lakes’ water and wildlife.

The areas are of critical importance to waterfowl, particularly during migration.

“This is a great announcement for conservation,” said Gildo Tori, director of public policy for Ducks Unlimited.

“It’s part of a really successful government program, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and partnering with agriculture is a no-brainer. In fact, most landowners in the designated area are eligible to apply for technical and financial assistance to implement conservation activities on their lands that conserve soil, water, air and wildlife resources. It’s good for wildlife and it’s good for people.”

Maps of the areas eligible for GLRI funding and eligible practices will be posted on the NRCS-Michigan web site at www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/glri.html. Information is also available at local NRCS and conservation district offices.

GLRI assistance in the Saginaw Bay and western Lake Erie Basin watersheds will be targeted to address non-point source pollution and grassland bird habitat. A four-county area in the Saginaw Bay will also have funding available to address feral swine, an increasing threat to Michigan habitat.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

ROCKWOOD, Ill--(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited recently donated 318 acres at Rockwood Island to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for inclusion into the recently established Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).

The site is located along the Mississippi River and is accessible from the Great River Road National Scenic Byway (Illinois Highway 3) which follows the Mississippi River from its headwaters in Minnesota to its confluence with the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana.

DU originally purchased the Randolph County property in 2005 using a grant from the North American Wetlands Conservation Council. Since that time, DU has planted more than 145 acres of frequently flooded cropland to bottomland hardwood trees and allowed the rest of the property to naturally revert back to wetlands for the benefit of waterfowl and other wildlife.

“Getting this land protected and restored is a real group effort,” said Eric Schenck, Ducks Unlimited regional biologist. Schenck noted that DU’s donation is part of a strategic partnership effort to conserve wetland and wetland forest habitat along the Mississippi River corridor.

“The Mississippi River is America’s river supporting the lives of fish, wildlife and millions of people. DU is proud to be doing our part to preserve this national treasure.”

DU’s work at Rockwood Island has been in close cooperation with the American Land Conservancy . In recent years, DU and ALC have acquired nearly 2,000 acres at Rockwood Island and on nearby Crain’s Island with the intent to transfer all property to the FWS for the Middle Mississippi River NWR. DU helped ALC cover a portion of the acquisition costs of these land transactions with grant funds from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.

“We are very grateful for this donation from Ducks Unlimited,” said Robert Cail, refuge manager of the Middle Mississippi River NWR. “If it were not for DU and our other Middle Mississippi River partners, this refuge would not have been possible.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Information about the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway is available at http://www.greatriverroad-illinois.org/.

Ducks Unlimited

Des Moines, Iowa --(Ammoland.com)- The Natural Resources Conservation Service and Ducks Unlimited signed a $1.5 million cooperative agreement recently to coordinate and deliver the Wetlands Reserve Program in Iowa.

WRP is a voluntary incentive-based program that provides financial and technical assistance to landowners to restore wetlands and associated uplands on their property.

This agreement extends through 2013 and includes planned restoration activities on more than 6,500 acres of private lands throughout the Prairie Pothole and Missouri River Valley Regions of Iowa.

“Ducks Unlimited’s staff and expertise will help us complete WRP restorations in these areas of the state,” Richard Sims, NRCS state conservationist said. “They’re a natural partner since we’re both firmly committed to working closely with private landowners and agency partners to restore high-quality wetlands.”

Wetlands protected and restored under WRP provide significant benefits not only to wildlife, but also the citizens of Iowa. Major flooding has plagued many Iowa communities for several years. Wetlands help reduce downstream flooding by acting like a sponge that absorbs water and slows runoff. Wetlands also improve water quality by recharging ground water and drinking water supplies.

“We’re very excited about this new conservation partnership with NRCS and private landowners in Iowa,” Eric Lindstrom, DU regional biologist, said. “WRP provides tremendous ecological, environmental and societal benefits for Iowans, while bolstering local economic growth and creating private sector jobs through construction activities.”

There is currently a waiting list of Iowa landowners interested in enrolling in WRP. Current funding levels limit the number of competitive applications that can be accepted each year. The agreement between DU and NRCS will help address this backlog and accelerate wetland conservation efforts across the state.

Visit www.ia.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/WRP.html for information about WRP in Iowa.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

(r-l) DU First Vice President John Newman presents Shell Oil Company representatives Claude Griffin and Gary Lacombe with a Buzzing Beauties statue as a token of appreciation for their support of DU’s coastal Louisiana programs.

Ducks Unlimited

LAFAYETTE, La. --(Ammoland.com)- Shell Oil Company recently donated $250,000 to Ducks Unlimited, reaching the half-million dollar mark in their support of DU’s ongoing efforts to protect and restore rapidly disappearing coastal wetland habitats in Louisiana.

“The Gulf Coast has long been a top priority for Ducks Unlimited,” Bob Dew, DU manager of conservation programs in Louisiana, said. “Louisiana’s coastal habitat is essential to sustaining North American waterfowl populations, and the area remains an important part of North America’s waterfowling heritage.”

The Louisiana coast is the most important region for wintering waterfowl in North America. It provides continentally significant winter habitat for more than 10 million waterfowl and multitudes of other migratory birds and wetland-dependent wildlife.

“Much of Louisiana’s coastal habitat has degraded over time, and the science tells us the loss of habitat is limiting the number of waterfowl the coast can support today,” Dew said. “The only way to meet the needs of waterfowl tomorrow is through habitat restoration.”

Shell Oil Company’s second $250,000 contribution will support all three aspects of DU’s habitat conservation approach – science, policy and direct habitat delivery programs.

“Ducks Unlimited is recognized as the leader in wetlands conservation due to its ability to forge diverse partnerships and deliver significant wetlands conservation,” Claude Griffin, Shell Oil Company’s social investment program manager for the environment, said. “We are proud to continue to support all three avenues of DU’s road to the ultimate goal of a sustainable coastal ecosystem.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters

across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

HELENA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited is supporting legislation that will have a positive impact on waterfowl habitats and protect the North Fork of the Flathead Drainage in Montana.

The bill, the North Fork Watershed Protection Act of 2011 (S.233), was introduced in the 112th Congress by Montana Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester.

Sen. Baucus will present the bill at a hearing to the Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests on May 25.

“The legislation will protect the water quality of downstream flows to key wetlands in this drainage area. This is a critical staging area for migrating waterfowl and supports more than 50,000 waterfowl each year,” Robert Sanders, DU manager of conservation programs for Montana said. “For example, the region’s large number of small wetlands has been known to support one of the highest densities of nesting redheads in the U.S.”

Most of the land in the Flathead Valley is federally owned, with miles of grassland dotted with hundreds of small wetlands. The Intermountain West Joint Venture Coordinated Bird Conservation Plan and numerous federal and state level bird conservation plans list this valley as a priority landscape for waterfowl and other birds.

“It is imperative water quality in this key area be maintained,” Sanders said, “and DU supports the North Fork legislation as a way to ensure water quality is maintained for these important habitats.”

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

L-R: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Executive Officer Dan Stencil, Ducks Unlimited Manager of Conservation Programs Jenifer Christman, and Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman Gerald A. Fisher

Ducks Unlimited

ANN ARBOR, Mich. --(Ammoland.com)- The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission recently recognized Ducks Unlimited for its commitment to protect natural resources in Oakland County.

The recognition took place during a commission meeting at Springfield Oaks County Park in Davisburg.

The conservation success came through a partnership of individuals and organizations

“It was really putting together pieces of a puzzle” said Jenifer Christman, DU manager of conservation.

OCPR was interested in purchasing the Upper Bushman Lake parcel in order to add to their existing Independence Oaks County Park. OCPR had secured the majority of their funding from a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant, but the funding was just shy of the amount needed to close the deal.

“That’s where the Carls Foundation came in,” Christmas said.

DU secured a grant from the Carls Foundation that bridged the purchase price of the Upper Bushman Lake parcel, and also covered the cost of the connector parcel between Bushman and Independence Oaks County Park.

It also gave the parks direct access to Sashabaw Road.

The groups ended up protecting more than 1,000 acres of contiguous habitat in the headwaters of the Clinton River. The North Oakland Headwaters Land Conservancy is a partner in this effort, and hopes to protect additional lands in the area with conservation easements.

“This was a real friendship-builder.” Christman concluded. “When so many entities come together with conservation as a goal, it can only result in better habitat and improved recreation for local citizens. Everyone wins.”

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

TORRINGTON, Wy --(Ammoland.com)- Goshen County is a focal point for some of Ducks Unlimited’s most important wetland and waterfowl habitat restoration efforts in Wyoming.

Since DU began work in Wyoming they have conserved 1,173 acres of waterfowl habitat in this county alone.

The ‘Goshen Hole’ wetland complex has long been recognized as an important waterfowl breeding area in the state. The area provides migratory ducks and geese with an important stopover point during spring migration to the prairie breeding grounds. DU’s conservation efforts in the area focus on restoration of degraded wetlands, improving the ability of managers to utilize water resources for waterfowl and placing conservation easements on key parcels of land that benefit waterfowl.

“Goshen County has a great mix of riverine and pothole habitats preferred by migrating ducks and geese,” said Matt Reddy, DU regional biologist. “These natural wetlands combine with the reservoirs and irrigation ditches run by local producers to provide great conditions for our waterfowl visitors.”

Over the past few years, DU has delivered several wetland projects conserving 906 acres in Goshen County. These projects were funded in part by the North American Wetland Conservation Act, Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust and private landowners. These projects involved improving water management capabilities to enhance and improve waterfowl migration, breeding and brood rearing habitat on private lands.

The landowners of these properties are better able to manage water levels to promote beneficial vegetation growth and provide dependable water for the ducks. DU will monitor the properties and work with the landowners to maximize waterfowl use of the restored wetlands.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

ST. LOUIS, Mo. --(Ammoland.com)- In just over three years, Ducks Unlimited and an impressive suite of partners permanently protected 11,135 acres of critical wildlife habitat in Illinois and Missouri with the support of a $2.5-million grant from the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation using funds provided by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.

“We were thrilled to have this opportunity to work with the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation to use the very generous support from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation to achieve substantial, high quality habitat conservation on the ground,” Dave Brakhage, DU director of conservation programs, said.

In 2007, DDCF provided a three and one-half year grant in the amount of $10.8 million to the INHF for the purpose of establishing and managing the Upper Midwest Land Protection Initiative. This initiative was designed to support the implementation of the State Wildlife Action Plans in the Upper Midwest states of Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin.

Under the terms of the grant agreement, INHF was to work with The Conservation Fund and Ducks Unlimited to implement the initiative. Ducks Unlimited entered into a re-grant agreement with INHF to specifically implement the initiative in targeted conservation opportunity areas in Illinois and Missouri.

“We believe this effort was a resounding success,” INHF President Mark C. Ackelson said. “The mission of Ducks Unlimited was in great alignment with what we were trying to achieve with state wildlife action plans.” INHF is a member-supported, nonprofit conservation organization.

INHF granted DU $2.5 million to permanently protect ecologically significant land in Missouri and Illinois. DU and its partners protected 3,746 acres in Illinois and 7,389 acres in Missouri. These lands are identified as high priorities for conservation by state wildlife agencies.

DU was required to match the grant funds at a minimum of 5:1 ratio overall. The final match ratio was 22:1. All together, DU and its partners used $2.5 million of grant funds coupled with $55.9 million of partner match funds to permanently protect 11,135 acres of wetlands and associated habitat in six different conservation opportunity areas.

“This program was extremely successful, with much partner interest. Without the support of the grant and the outstanding cooperation of area landowners, I doubt we would have been able to celebrate this accomplishment,” Mark Flaspohler, Ducks Unlimited manager of conservation programs in Missouri, said. “Ensuring these critical habitats are forever protected from development is a significant step in the right direction for wildlife, waterfowl, flood protection and water quality.”

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

(l-r) DU CEO Dale Hall, MDC Dir. Bob Ziehmer, DU Canada Senior Conservation Advisor Mike Anderson, DU Chief Biologist Dale Humburg, MDC Wildlife Division Chief DeeCee Darrow Page 2

Ducks Unlimited

KANSAS CITY, Mo --(Ammoland.com)-  With this year’s state grant program contribution of $250,000, the Missouri Department of Conservation reached the $5 million mark for donations to waterfowl breeding grounds in Canada.

With the support of MDC during the past five years, Ducks Unlimited conserved, enhanced and restored 235,059 acres of prime breeding habitat and positively influenced an additional 1.2 million acres.

“The MDC partnership with Ducks Unlimited is one of the strongest and most effective in the nation,” Mark Flaspohler, DU manager of conservation programs for Missouri, said. “Their commitment to the state grants program is just one manifestation of that partnership.”

The state grants program represents a unique international funding partnership that preserves critical waterfowl habitat in the Prairie Pothole Region of Canada, while working toward achieving the goals of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Contributions from the states are matched by DU Inc. and DU Canada, as well as the North American Wetlands Conservation Act.

“It is the committed support of partners like the Missouri Department of Conservation that makes waterfowl conservation and the North American Waterfowl Management Plan a success,” DU CEO Dale Hall, said.

DU Canada uses a combination of strategically targeted direct programs, agricultural extension and public policy efforts to advance its conservation goals. Direct habitat programs such as land acquisition and conservation easements help secure the remaining habitat base and provide restoration opportunities. Agricultural extension programs focus on adding nesting cover and/or improving wetland conditions, while the promotion of waterfowl-friendly agricultural practices provides positive economic benefits to producers.

“MDC’s investment in Canadian waterfowl habitat yields direct, tangible returns for Missourians,” said MDC Director Bob Ziehmer. “Leveraging our contribution and money from other states four-to-one lets us put $2 million into protecting critical nesting habitat that sends millions of ducks winging down the Mississippi Flyway to Missouri and beyond each fall.”

Waterfowl band recovery data has established a clear link between waterfowl produced and banded in Canada’s PPR and subsequently harvested in the Mississippi Flyway. Priority habitats in Manitoba stand out as a primary Canadian source of ducks harvested in Missouri.

“The conservation of this vital habitat will ensure Missouri hunters experience strong waterfowl flights from Manitoba for many years to come,” Tom Shryock, DU Missouri state chairman, said.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent.

Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited will host a special guest at the Nebraska state convention this weekend. U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson (NE) is scheduled to attend and speak at the Saturday evening banquet.

“Sen. Nelson is a lifelong hunter who has been an asset to conservation in Nebraska and the nation,” DU Manager of Conservation Programs Steve Donovan said. “Sen. Nelson is a crucial advocate for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conservation activities, wetland protection programs in the Farm Bill, and for the North Americans Wetlands Conservation Act. We are honored to have the senator speak at our state convention.”

Nelson is a member of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, which was formed to advance and protect the interests of sportsmen across the country. The Sportsmen’s Caucus provides a network of political leaders and allies of the outdoors that can quickly take action when conservation or hunting or fishing rights are threatened. Nelson was chairman of the group from 2009 -2010.

Nelson, who has been a member of DU for seven years, has won both the domestic Grand Slam and international World Slam for wild turkeys and has hunted on a safari in Africa.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Sean McMahon (right), State Director for The Nature Conservancy in Iowa receives the 2011 Partner of the Year Award from DU Regional Biologist Eric Lindstrom (left)

Ducks Unlimited

DES MOINES, Iowa --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited volunteers and staff in Iowa presented their 2011 conservation awards during the recent state convention.

These awards recognize the achievements of individuals, organizations and businesses in Iowa for their dedicated efforts to protect and improve North America’s wetland and waterfowl resources.

This year’s recipients are:

• The Nature Conservancy – Iowa Chapter – Partner of the Year
• Doug Janke, Iowa Department of Natural Resources biologist – Professional of the Year
• Des Moines Water Works – Public Policy Champion of the Year
• Dr. Dave and Dee Haggard, Drs. John and Suzanne Synhorst and Bob Olson – Beyond the Call Awards
• Winnebago Industries, Luster Heights Correction Facility and Diamond Vogel – Corporate Teal Award

As Partner of the Year, The Nature Conservancy – Iowa Chapter has worked closely with DU and other conservation partners on a multi-million dollar grant partnership to deliver high quality habitat protection, restoration and enhancement projects throughout north-central Iowa. The partners’ goal is to invest more than $8 million dollars of federal NAWCA grants and non-federal matching funds towards this large-scale conservation effort during a five-year period. TNC also provided key leadership to help chair Iowa’s Water and Land Legacy campaign in 2010, which passed by an overwhelming majority vote (63%) by more than 622,000 Iowans last November to create a permanent and dedicated Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund.

This year’s Public Policy Champion award went to the Des Moines Water Works. Accepting on their behalf were Randy Beavers, Dr. Chris Jones and Linda Kinman.

“Ducks Unlimited applauds the Des Moines Water Works for recognizing the environmental services provided by wetlands such as clean water and advocating for policies that protect Iowa’s remaining wetland resources against further degradation,” DU Director of Conservation Programs Ryan Heiniger said.

Iowa DNR Wildlife Biologist Doug Janke was recognized as the 2011 Professional of the Year recipient. “Doug has devoted more than 28 years of his career with the DNR to help protect and improve critical wetland and wildlife habitat across Iowa,” DU Regional Biologist Eric Lindstrom said. “Thanks to the dedication and commitment by Doug and his colleagues with the DNR, Iowa’s wetlands and waterfowl resources are making a strong comeback to recovery, despite the many challenges we’re up against today.”

Beyond the Call awards were presented to Dr. Dave and Dee Haggard of Fort Dodge, Drs. John and Suzie Synhorst of Spirit Lake, and Bob Olson of Forest City for their significant personal in-kind and financial contributions towards DU’s direct habitat conservation programs, fundraising efforts and public policy work.

Lastly, Winnebago Industries, Luster Heights Correctional Facility and Diamond Vogel were recognized with a Corporate Teal Award for their donation of materials and labor towards Iowa’s Wood Duck Box Program. “Thanks to strong corporate partners like them, we’ve been able to continue this highly successful statewide program during the past two years to construct and erect more than 600 wood duck boxes,” DU Regional Director Mike Heller said.

DU thanks the many individuals, organizations, businesses and partners that help achieve our vision to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Wetland area at the Lafarge Fredonia Cement Plant. Photo by Mark Metcalf.

Ducks Unlimited

TOPEKA, Kansas --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited and the Wildlife Habitat Council recognized Lafarge as the winner of the 2010 Wings Over Wetlands award.

The award was presented to Lafarge for the habitat conservation work being conducted at their cement facility in Fredonia, Kan.

“The Fredonia facility is working diligently to be good stewards of wetlands and wildlife on their company-owned lands,” Dale Humburg, DU chief biologist and lead judge of the Wings Over Wetlands competition, said.

The Wings Over Wetlands award was created by DU and WHC in 2007 to encourage active corporate participation in wetland stewardship and to recognize those corporations that have excelled in restoring, protecting and managing wetland habitats on their sites.

Lafarge’s Fredonia Cement Plant established a project that ensures perpetuation of existing wildlife values and adds to future values as well. In addition, the community of Fredonia has responded favorably to the site, and the DU chapter in the area has become involved in the project.

“We are honored to receive this award from these two well-respected organizations,” Sean Brennan, plant manager at the Fredonia Cement plant, said. “We have a group of employee volunteers we call our ‘Green Team’ who lead our wetlands efforts, along with the continued support of all our plant employees. Looking after and giving back to our environment is integral to how we conduct our business, and we look forward to building upon our efforts every year,” Brennan continued.

DU Senior Regional Director Barry Allen and Regional Director Russ Hawley presented the award during a Feb. 22 celebration event at the Fredonia facility.

“We are impressed by what has already been accomplished at this site and by the plans for continued and expanded habitat management and community outreach,” Allen said. “It is evident that corporate support of maintaining biodiversity is an organization-wide goal.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

RALEIGH, NC --(Ammoland.com)- If you have a passion for wetlands and waterfowl, a love of the natural world and all its wonders, then Ducks Unlimited and partners invite you to join them in celebrating the lasting legacy for waterfowl and wetlands conservation accomplished through North Carolina’s Sound CARE Initiative.

“Seven years ago we embarked on a journey to raise $27 million to conserve 70,000 acres in North Carolina and on the breeding grounds important to our state,” Lloyd Goode, past NC DU state chairman and current DU regional vice president, said.

“The Sound CARE Initiative was the first of its kind for Ducks Unlimited – a comprehensive state campaign that included all sources of revenue raised in the state for waterfowl and wetlands conservation.”

Through Sound CARE, Ducks Unlimited and partners like the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the North American Wetlands Conservation Council improved habitat on many public lands in the state, including Goose Creek Game Land (Pamlico County), Caswell GL (Caswell County), Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge (Hyde County), Gull Rock GL (Hyde County), Suggs Mill Pond GL (Bladen County) and Pocosin Lakes NWR (Washington County). The Sound CARE initiative also supported important habitat conservation efforts on the breeding grounds most important to waterfowl that migrate to North Carolina.

The Sound CARE celebration event will be held Friday, March 4, at 6:30 p.m. The event venue is the Pavilions at the Angus Barn, 9410 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, N.C. Tickets can be purchased online www.ducks.org/NCDU-Sound-CARE. Rooms are blocked at a group rate for those who want to spend the evening in Raleigh at the Embassy Suites – Raleigh-Durham Airport / Brier Creek 1-919-572-2200. You may also contact Larry Wilkins – lwilkins@ducks.org or 252-425-1842 – for tickets or more information

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Remington and Ducks Unlimited – Joining Forces in Wetlands Conservation

Remington Arms Company

Madison, NC --(Ammoland.com)- Remington Arms Company, Inc., the only U.S. manufacturer of both firearms and ammunition products and one of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles, and Ducks Unlimited (DU), the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats, have announced a new sponsorship agreement.

As of January 1, 2011 Remington is a Proud Partner of Ducks Unlimited. Ducks Unlimited’s Partners Program is all about special partnerships and programs that provide people with new ways to express their love of nature, enhance their trips afield, and support their commitment to sharing nature’s rewards with their children, grandchildren and many generations to come.

“We are very proud to partner with Ducks Unlimited to continue to support the conservation of America’s flyways and the waterfowl hunting sport,” says Marc Hill, Chief Marketing Officer of Remington Arms.

“Remington will continue to support the waterfowl industry through end user driven new products such as our new patented semi-automatic shotgun and our patented world’s fastest HyperSonic Steel shot which is ideal for members of Ducks Unlimited.”

“For decades, iconic outdoor leaders Ducks Unlimited and Remington have enabled enthusiasts to enjoy countless hunts and helped conserve fragile habitats,” stated Philip Milburn, National Director of Development – Ducks Unlimited.

“This new partnership effort is a joint commitment to encourage more people to explore waterfowl hunting and a team effort to conserve more places to make hunting possible.”

The scope of the Remington / DU partnership will cover both the waterfowl ammunition and shotgun categories.

About Remington Arms Company, Inc.
Remington Arms Company, Inc., headquartered in Madison, N.C., designs, produces and sells sporting goods products for the hunting and shooting sports markets, as well as solutions to the military, government and law enforcement markets. Founded in 1816 in upstate New York, the Company is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturers. Remington is the only U.S. manufacturer of both firearms and ammunition products and one of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles. The Company distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 55 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.

About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Last Chance to Enter 'Carhartt Tough' Contest

Carhartt

CINCINNATI, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The Are You Carhartt Tough?

Our contest has entered the last few weeks of its fourth and final quarter and has received hundreds of entry nominations at www.CarharttRental.com.

The contest began last February and has generated the selection of nine quarterly winners.

When the contest closes at the end of January 2011, three additional finalists will be selected, and all 12 will be featured on the contest’s web site where the public will be encouraged to vote for the toughest of the tough. Two grand prize winners will be chosen based on public votes.

The contest was created in conjunction with a new partnership between Carhartt, the nation’s leading manufacturer of premium work wear for over 120 years, and Cintas Corporation (Nasdaq:CTAS), North America’s largest uniform supplier, and the roll-out of the new Carhartt Rental Workwear line, which is available exclusively through Cintas (www.cintast.com/carhartt).

“This contest is really a reflection of our companies,” says Chuck Helmes, Director of Garment Strategy at Cintas Corporation.

“Both Carhartt and Cintas are known for providing tough products and dependable service, and we want to celebrate workers who reflect those same characteristics.”

With Ducks Unlimited acting as media sponsor, contest organizers have reached out to the American workforce to identify people who are strong, dependable, resilient and rugged. The two grand prizes include a weekend duck hunt trip designed by Ducks Unlimited or a trip for two to The STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Series in 2011.

Quarterly winners thus far include the following individuals:

• Steve Nicholson, a Senior Firefighter from Quincy, CA
• Cori Dixon, a Farm Manager from Kutztown, PA
• Jonathan Backus, a Lineman from Hampton, VA
• Tim Zweber, a Dairy Farmer from Elko, MN
• Gabe Butler, a Navy Deep Sea Diver from Coranado, CA
• John Irish, a Truck Driver and Roofer from West Allis, WI
• Elizabeth “EJ” Robertson, a Laborer/Journeyman from Peoria, IL
• David Huskins, a field Technician from Denver, CO
• Bubba Peters, a Tow Truck Operator from Seattle, WA

Contestants can register by visiting www.CarharttRental.com, where they can submit a short essay and photograph. Submissions will be accepted until Jan. 30.

“This is a great way for two well-respected work wear brands to showcase the men and women behind some of the toughest jobs out there,” said Steve Carter, Vice President of Corporate Sales for Carhartt. “Our customers work hard and play hard, and these are two fabulous prizes that we look forward to presenting to our top two finalists.”

Levee construction on Eagle Flats Marsh, Iowa.

Ducks Unlimited

FOREST CITY, Iowa --(Ammoland.com)- Construction activities are complete and the pump is running to flood Eagle Flats Marsh in Hancock County.

Already managers with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources have witnessed several hundred ducks and geese as well as a pair of sandhill cranes on the property.

Eagle Flats Marsh is part of a historic 800-acre formerly-drained wetland complex in north-central Iowa. In the early 1990s, the DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partnered to successfully acquire and restore several tracts of land within this complex. However, DNR biologists continued to have problems effectively managing some of the wetlands because of drastically altered water flows and lack of sufficient infrastructure to manage water levels.

In 2007, Ducks Unlimited, DNR and several local conservationists stepped in to help with this project.

“DU and the DNR designed a plan that would split the marsh into three wetland units where water levels could be managed independently using a series of dikes, water controls and a pump,” said Eric Lindstrom, DU regional biologist in Iowa.

The $500,000 Eagle Flats enhancement project was funded by contributions from state, federal and private conservation partners, including several DU major sponsors.

“We now have an ideal wetland unit with functioning structures that allow us to manage each wetland cell to optimize habitat conditions for waterfowl and other wetland dependent birds,” said Greg Hanson, DNR area wildlife manager.

The DNR began flooding the units in August. Once completely flooded, the area will comprise nearly 270 acres of high quality waterfowl foraging habitat. DNR managers report the pump is working great and that they will continue to flood the units this fall.

“We want to give special thanks to the DNR and DU’s supporters for making this Living Lakes project possible,” Lindstrom said. “We will celebrate this conservation success story with all the major contributing partners at a formal project dedication in the spring of 2011.”

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Deborah Loon (left) and Mike Malling (right) accept Beyond the Call awards from Jon Schneider (center).

Ducks Unlimited

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited presented two key Minnesota partners with “Beyond The Call” awards for work above and beyond the call of duty to make the Perch Lake enhancement project possible.

Deborah Loon of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust, and Mike Malling of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service were recognized at the trust’s October board meeting by Ryan Heiniger, DU director of conservation programs for Minnesota and Jon Schneider, DU manager of Minnesota conservation programs.

“The Perch Lake project has been a high priority for our local, state and federal partners for many years, as it is so valuable to migratory waterfowl and one of the state’s designated wildlife lakes,” said Loon, executive director of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust.

“The trust was proud to be a partner in this project and help bring it to fruition.”

In 1971, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources legally designated Perch Lake in Blue Earth County for wildlife management purposes. The 310-acre lake has a history of abundant waterfowl use, but is periodically compromised by carp and other invasive fish entering from the nearby Cobb River.

Shortly after the designation, the Minnesota DNR installed a water control structure on private land to allow water level management on the lake that would induce natural fish winterkill conditions and rejuvenate the marsh. By the mid 1990s the structure was no longer functioning, and because the structure and lake outlet were on private land, it could not legally be replaced until the land was acquired by a public conservation agency.

“The challenging conservation work we tackle to enhance, restore and protect Minnesota’s key shallow lakes for waterfowl simply cannot be accomplished without strong partnerships,” Schneider said during the presentation. “Enhancing Perch Lake with an improved water control structure was made possible only through a decade of perseverance by Mike Malling and strong land acquisition efforts and negotiations by Deb Loon. Without the leadership of these two individuals and the strong support of both the trust and the service, Perch Lake would still be unprotected and unmanaged today.”

After years of effort by many conservation partners, Malling and Loon spearheaded an effort to acquire the 110-acre outlet tract and several others on Perch Lake to help restore the lake’s watershed and provide DNR and DU with legal access to the lake’s outlet to replace the structure. DU engineers surveyed and designed a new variable crest outlet water control weir structure equipped with a fish barrier feature. The structure returned water levels in the lake to normal levels, and will be subsequently used by the DNR in future water level management actions designed to keep the lake in an optimal state for migratory birds, especially waterfowl.

“DU was a very important partner in the success of this project as well, and their wetland engineering expertise was invaluable,” Malling said.

Funding support for the engineering of the project was provided through a 2008 grant from Minnesota’s Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. DU then installed the new structure in spring 2010 using a combination of other state and federal grants from LCCMR and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act.

The land will be transferred from the trust to the service and managed as a federal Waterfowl Production Area, and the DNR will manage the Perch Lake structure through a cooperative agreement with the trust and service. The project is part of DU’s Living Lakes Initiative and the Minnesota DNR’s Duck Recovery Plan. These cooperative efforts call for the enhancement, restoration and protection of shallow lakes and large marshes for both waterfowl migration and brood-rearing habitat.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

RIDGELAND, Miss. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited has received approval to operate the Mississippi Delta In-Lieu Fee Program to fulfill wetland mitigation requirements for parties authorized by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to impact wetlands within the Mississippi Delta.

“DU has more than 70 years experience in wetland enhancement and restoration work and is recognized as the leading wetland conservation organization,” Eric Held, manager of mitigation programs for DU’s Southern Region, said. “Operating the MSD-ILFP allows us to apply this institutional knowledge and experience to deliver quality wetland restoration projects to provide compensation for the authorized wetland impacts.”

DU is not involved in the decision making process on whether to allow impacts to wetlands. The Corps and other regulatory agencies will continue to make all decisions regarding whether to grant authorization to impact wetlands.

Parties required to provide mitigation will be able to purchase wetland credits from DU’s MSD-ILFP. This allows public and private developers to realize economic advantages over implementing their own mitigation projects. These advantages include reduced permitting time and costs and transfer of all mitigation obligations.

“In-lieu fee programs allow for targeted restoration projects that address specific needs within certain watersheds,” Held said. “By using available conservation planning tools, MSD-ILFP restoration projects will be located to maximize benefits to multiple species of fish and wildlife.”

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi Departments of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality approved the program.

For additional information on DU’s MSD-ILF Program, please contact Eric Held, manager of mitigation programs for DU’s Southern Region, at 601-206-5446 or at eheld@ducks.org.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited Wetland Mitigation Services

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited members and supporters understand the value of a dollar.

When they put a dollar in DU’s hands, they can count on two things: The majority – more than 80 percent – of that dollar is going directly to conservation, and that dollar will be matched and leveraged many times to increase its impact.

“As a biologist, Ducks Unlimited volunteer and life sponsor, I am very proud of the work that DU has done in Alabama,” Shawn Battison, DU regional director, said. “Through the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, and the generosity of our local supporters, DU has done more for the duck hunter than any other wetland or waterfowl organization in North America.”

In Alabama, DU and partners have conserved more than 27,000 acres of wetland habitats important to waterfowl and other wildlife. DU has spent more than $1.7 million on conservation in Alabama, improving many public areas including projects on the Sipsey River, Demopolis Wildlife Management Area and Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge.

“I don’t think many duck hunters realize that if they are hunting on a public hunting area in Alabama, chances are good they are hunting on a Ducks Unlimited project,” Battison said.

Through a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, DU and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources continue to improve waterfowl habitat in Alabama with a project to enhance wetlands on the David K. Nelson Wildlife Management Area near Demopolis in Greene County.

“This project will improve 70 acres of wetland habitat, complementing the ongoing work by the DCNR in adjacent counties,” Tim Willis, DU regional biologist, said. “Collectively, these projects bring us closer to our goals of providing quality wetland habitat, cleaner water in Alabama’s watersheds and enhanced outdoor opportunities for the people in the region.”

Attend one of these upcoming events and support wetlands conservation in your area:

• Eutaw Ducks Unlimited Dinner October 1st, 2010 Contact Colin McRae 205-792-9808
• Tuscaloosa Ducks Unlimited Dinner October 7th, 2010 Contact Westley Jones 205-361-4749
• Marion Ducks Unlimited Dinner October 28th, 2010 Contact Robert Hoggle 334-683-4004
• Greensboro Ducks Unlimited Dinner November 16th, 2010 Contact William Holmes 334-624-4001
• Demopolis Ducks Unlimited Dinner November 18th, 2010 Contact Brandon Smith 334-534-1764

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Visit www.ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited

BROOKINGS, S.D. --(Ammoland.com)- Landowners can benefit their operations, improve water quality and control flooding all while conserving wetlands for waterfowl and other wildlife through the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP).

Ducks Unlimited (DU) Conservation Biologist, Dan Limmer is working in partnership with the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP) to find these win-win opportunities and address the tremendous demand for WRP in eastern South Dakota.

Limmer’s position was created through a partnership with SDGFP, NRCS and DU. Through the NRCS’s Red River Basin Initiative, Limmer is working in NRCS field offices helping interested landowners address flood control and water quality issues. On board since April, Limmer has already helped secure 54 WRP contracts conserving just under 5,000 acres.

Duck Fever: Catch it Today!

“My position was created because there is tremendous interest in WRP from landowners in eastern South Dakota,” Limmer said. “The NRCS needed help with the significant workload that goes along with administering this program, and the workload keeps growing.”

Currently in South Dakota there are over 1,000 WRP easements in place conserving nearly 80,000 acres. With Limmer’s help, DU, SDGFP and NRCS hope to expand that number and work with the landowners who have been waiting for WRP contracts.

“This partnership has worked out exceptionally well,” said Curtis Elke, assistant state conservationist with the NRCS. “The demand for WRP has grown exponentially in the last few years, and we are hoping to add another person like Dan to help us serve our customers’ requests.”

WRP is a voluntary program that helps landowners protect, restore and enhance wetlands on their property.

The NRCS administers the program and provides incentives and technical assistance for landowners with the goal of restoring wetland functions to the landscape and providing quality wildlife habitat.

In the end, landowners benefit by being compensated for retiring marginal land from agriculture and the landscape benefits by the conservation of soil, water and wetland resources.

“WRP is an exceptional program for many, and with the amount of rainfall we have received in recent years, it is helping landowners continue to receive income from land that has less production value,” Elke said.

“I am a producer and I grew up on a farm so I bring that perspective to this job, I know the problems landowners face with management and conservation and have a good idea what they are looking for in a conservation program,” Limmer said.

Limmer has a strong background in natural resources. He has worked for South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks as a habitat biologist and watershed project coordinator as well a conservation officer.

Limmer also has experience in natural resources policy, working for several non-government conservation organizations as a private consultant.

If you are interested in sighing up for WRP you can contact Dan Limmer through the NRCS Brookings Field Support Office, 523rd Ave., Brookings, S.D., 605-692-2344.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited & Partners Complete North Carolina Coastal Wetlands Project

Ducks Unlimited

GREENVILLE, NC --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited and partners recently completed wetlands restoration work in east-central North Carolina funded in part by a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant.

Partners including Ducks Unlimited, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), North Carolina Clean Water Management Trust Fund, and Neuse River Investments, LLC provided $2,221,807 in funding to complement the $999,067 NAWCA grant.

“This project focuses on enhancing emergent estuarine habitat, a decreasing wetland type,” said Craig LeSchack, Ducks Unlimited director of conservation programs. “These wetlands provide feeding habitat for many wetland-dependent species including migrating and wintering waterfowl in the Atlantic Flyway, neotropical migrants and other migratory and non-migratory waterbirds.”

This grant is an important part of ongoing conservation efforts in coastal North Carolina and improved habitat on both public and private lands in the Neuse-Pamlico region including more than 1,000 acres within the Goose Creek Game Lands.

“This area provides some of the most important managed habitat under state ownership for northern pintails and American black ducks,” LeSchack said. “In addition, the area is at the southern end of the breeding range for black ducks, which nest on the Goose Creek Game Lands.”

Like all Ducks Unlimited projects, the partners involved in the Neuse-Pamlico project made it possible.

“This is a unique project because it provides a solution to protecting the habitat values and management capabilities of several of a limited number of emergent estuarine marsh impoundments along the North Carolina coast,” said Tommy Hughes, supervising wildlife biologist-coastal region public lands with NCWRC.

The proposal area also ties into current wetland conservation efforts funded by a previous NAWCA grant, thus providing landscape-scale wetland conservation.

“This proposal will aid in linking these areas by enhancing a valuable and distinct emergent estuarine habitat system,” Hughes said.

In Washington, D.C., Ducks Unlimited’s governmental affairs staff works with Congress to garner support for annual funding of NAWCA. To date, NAWCA has helped fund more than 2,015 wetland projects on 25.7 million acres in all 50 states, every province of Canada, and areas in Mexico. In North Carolina, projects supported by NAWCA have conserved more than 68,000 acres.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

Great Start On Duck Nesting Grounds

Ducks Unlimited

MCCLUSKY, N.D. --(Ammoland.com)- The hills are alive with breeding ducks. Conditions in the U.S. Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) are excellent for waterfowl production. And birds are taking full advantage of the food and nesting cover available to them.

“When I’ve been out in the field, there were ducks everywhere. We’re seeing lots of breeding ducks, and all indications are we’ll have lots of hens nesting this year,” said Scott Stephens, director of conservation planning for Ducks Unlimited’s (DU) Great Plains Regional Office (GPRO). “We have had very wet conditions on the prairies, and that has caused many of the seasonal wetlands to be full of water and exploding with duck food.”

This spring DU research crews are searching winter wheat fields looking for duck nests to see how nests fare in fall-planted cereal crops compared to other nesting habitats.

Ducks researchers found these duck species already nesting on the prairie:

• Mallards
• Northern pintails
• Blue-winged teal
• Northern shovelers

Ducks expected to begin nesting soon:

• Gadwall
• Scaup

Samples taken from prairie wetlands were teaming with aquatic invertebrates, a vital food resource for nesting hens.

“The potholes were loaded with water boatmen, midges, snails and other invertebrates,” said Steve Adair, director of operations for GPRO. “It also looks like we will have no shortage of mosquitoes this summer.”

Stephens says with last year’s excellent duck production he expects waterfowl populations have increased. “And if the birds breeding here now experience good production again, as we suspect they will, then populations should be in good shape,” he said.

Prior to last year, conditions on the prairie were much dryer and bird populations dropped. “We’re pleased to see favorable wetland conditions again this year,” Stephens said. “We’re especially pleased about rebounding pintail numbers because they’ve been below population objectives for some time. Good conditions on the prairie should facilitate improved populations.”

One dark cloud in these promising waterfowl conditions is the continued loss of native prairie and Conservation Reserve Program grasslands.

“Waterfowl and many other birds nest in grass. If the grass isn’t there, full wetlands are not enough to keep duck populations stable,” Adair said. “We continue to be very concerned about keeping grass in the PPR, which produces about 70 percent of the continent’s waterfowl when conditions are wet like this year.”

“From a continental perspective, we’ll need production from the Canadian prairies and the boreal forest if the fall flight of ducks is to be maintained,” Stephens said.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres, thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited Curtis Lake Enhancement Project

Ducks Unlimited

MARSHALL, Minn. –-(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited began enhancement of another shallow lake project funded in part by the Outdoor Heritage Fund as recommended by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.

The early warm weather melted snow and allowed crews get started on the Curtis Lake project near Marshall.

“To complete construction of this shallow lake project by summer, our contractor needed to mobilize the required heavy equipment, steel structure materials and rock riprap before the spring roadway load restrictions were posted,” said Brad Karel, DU construction manager.

Karel and contractor Chad Monson Excavating of Willmar began working in early March on Curtis Lake to install a sheet pile water control structure designed by DU.

“After a brief shutdown for the spring runoff, we will be able to resume work as soon as site conditions dry and improve,” Karel said.

Another large water control structure and a fish barrier will go in when construction resumes. This and other large and complex DU shallow lake enhancement projects create and sustain Minnesota jobs that benefit local economies.

The new water control structures will allow the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources field staff to actively manage water levels in Curtis Lake. Temporary water level draw downs simulate natural periodic drought conditions that will rejuvenate the basin’s aquatic ecology and optimize wildlife habitat in the lake, as well as improve hunting opportunities. Once the lake is enhanced, it will be especially important for migrating and brood-rearing waterfowl.

Curtis Lake is a 440-acre shallow lake with an average depth of four and a half feet. During their assessment in 2006, the DNR found that aquatic plants only occurred in 10 percent of the basin. This condition was due to stagnant high water levels, poor water quality and turbid conditions. Typically, a healthy shallow lake at four feet deep would have aquatic plants occurring in 100 percent of the basin because the water is clear and sunlight can reach the lake floor. The DNR legally designated Curtis Lake for wildlife management purposes in 2006. More recently the DNR was able to finalize easements with landowners around the outlet of Curtis Lake that enabled enhancement activities to move forward and will ensure management activities persist into the future.

“This project was made possible with assistance from local landowners such as the Busack and Bode families, public support for Lake Designation and financial support from the Cottonwood Sportsmen’s Club,” said Bill Schuna, DNR’s assistant area wildlife manager in Marshall.

Schuna acknowledges the strong partnership with DU and the support of private landowners, the public and local conservation organizations.

“DU played a vital role in this project by providing wetland engineering design expertise that will give us the ability to temporarily drawdown Curtis Lake. A drawdown and fish barrier will improve critical habitat for waterfowl and prevent invasive fish such as carp from re-entering the lake. These efforts will ultimately improve water quality and clarity,” Schuna said.

Primary funding for this project was provided by Outdoor Heritage Funds and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. The Cottonwood Sportsmen’s Club also provided local cost-share to the DNR for this project.

DU and the DNR’s Section of Wildlife work together to enhance shallow lake habitats throughout Minnesota. This partnership will help fulfill the shallow lake goals of both the DNR’s Duck Recovery Plan and DU’s Living Lakes Initiative, and will address the wetland habitat objectives of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

DU has five other shallow lake enhancement projects under contract that are funded by a 2009 Outdoor Heritage Fund grant, including Jennie Lake in Douglas County, Ash Lake in Grant County, Cory Lake in Lac qui Parle County, Round Lake in Murray County and Rice Lake in Faribault County. Construction plans for Smith Lake in Wright County and Lake Christina in Douglas County will go out for bid later this year. Each project has been developed in partnership with the DNR’s Section of Wildlife.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Iowas Funding Plan for the Natural Resources & Outdoor Recreation Act

Ducks Unlimited

DES MOINES, Iowa --(AmmoLand.com)- Following an important vote on Monday, Iowa moved one step closer to creating a permanent and dedicated Natural Resource and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund.

This legislation will protect and improve the state’s water quality, agricultural soils, natural areas and fish and wildlife habitat.

Iowa’s House of Representatives passed Senate File 2310 by an overwhelming bipartisan margin of 92-7, following a unanimous 50-0 passage by the Senate in late February. This legislation will be forwarded to Governor Culver’s desk to hopefully be signed into law. Enactment of this bill will provide greater clarity and accountability of allocation and distribution of funds from the new trust fund. Voters will be able to vote on this bill during the general ballot election on November 2, 2010.

“The future looks much brighter for Iowa’s wetland and waterfowl resources,” said James Roetman DU’s Iowa volunteer state chairman from Pocahontas.

“The passage of this important legislation provides much more specificity, understanding and assurance to Iowa voters and our members that these funds will be invested wisely, and as intended, as they head to the polls in November.”

The legislatively-created Sustainable Natural Resources Advisory Committee provided recommendations for SF 2310. The bill broadly defines that trust fund moneys be allocated and invested toward protection and enhancement of Iowa’s natural resources and outdoor recreational amenities.

These recommendations were based on specific natural resource needs and current funding limitations estimated at approximately $150 million per year. According to the advisory committee, Iowa ranks 47th out of 50 states nationally in current conservation spending and 49th in total public land ownership.

Ducks Unlimited has a long history of involvement in this effort and is supportive of the proposed constitutional amendment.

“This will help accelerate the conservation of wetlands, shallow lakes, wildlife management areas and other important waterfowl habitats in Iowa,” said Steve Adair DU director of the Great Plains Regional Office.

“DU has worked closely with many other organizations and supporters to build strong bipartisan support for this legislation,” said Roetman. “We’re grateful for the overwhelming support it received in both chambers and realize it’s now up to Iowa voters to make this vision a reality on November second.”

At least three other states have amended their respective constitutions to provide dedicated funding for habitat conservation including Missouri in 1976, Arkansas in 1996 and Minnesota in 2008.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved over 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

WASHINGTON, DC – -(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited looks forward to working with the Administration to implement its plan to streamline and coordinate restoration efforts along the Gulf Coast.

The plan, developed under the leadership of the President’s Council on Environmental Quality, brings together stakeholders from the states, federal government, and organizations like Ducks

“The Gulf Coast is a sportsmen’s paradise,” said John Newman, first vice president for Ducks Unlimited and a coastal Louisiana resident. “It is very good to see that the Administration realizes the importance of these marshes to waterfowl, other wildlife, and people both locally and nationally. These wetlands are a national treasure and provide many, many benefits to people across the United States.”

The effort highlights the importance of waterfowl and wildlife habitat to the overall ecosystem restoration of the region.

“With 10 national wildlife refuges totaling over 300,000 acres in coastal Louisiana and Mississippi, the Department of the Interior recognizes the vital role that Gulf Coast wetlands play in supporting fish and wildlife resources, as well as the nation’s commerce and domestic energy,” said Department of Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks Tom Strickland.

Ducks Unlimited’s efforts to restore Gulf Coast wetlands are ongoing. The region comprises the most important wintering area for waterfowl in North America. The coastal marshes may winter over 15 million waterfowl and myriad other wetland-dependent migratory birds.

“We are pleased that the Administration sees the need for swift, large-scale action to save the Gulf Coast,” said Barton James, director of public policy for Ducks Unlimited. “Ducks Unlimited has been working to restore Gulf Coast wetlands for millions of wintering waterfowl for many years, and it is good to see this new commitment from the federal government to restore this vital national resource.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved over 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

HELENA, Mont. --(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited supports legislation sponsored by Montana’s senators to protect the Upper Flathead Valley.

Sens. Max Bacus and Jon Tester introduced The North Fork Watershed Protection Act that protects the North Fork of the Flathead Drainage.

The legislation is in conjunction with a similar measure in British Columbia.

“The legislation will protect the water quality of downstream flows to key wetlands in this drainage area. This is a critical staging area for migrating waterfowl and supports more than 50,000 waterfowl each year,” said Robert Sanders, DU manager of conservation programs for Montana. “For example, the region’s large number of small wetlands has been known to support one of the highest densities of nesting redheads in the U.S.”

Most of the land in the Flathead Valley is federally owned, with miles of grassland dotted with hundreds of small wetlands. The Intermountain West Joint Venture Coordinated Bird Conservation Plan and numerous federal and state level bird conservation plans list this valley as a priority landscape for waterfowl and other birds.

“It’s imperative water quality in this key area be maintained,” Sanders said, “and DU supports the North Fork legislation as a way to ensure water quality is maintained for these important habitats.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

CHARLESTON, SC –-(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited recently achieved another milestone by conserving its 250,000th acre in the South Atlantic Flyway.

Public and private lands projects in North and South Carolina, Georgia and Florida are providing crucial habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl in the region.
Ducks Unlimited is conserving habitats like this across the South Atlantic.

DU has completed 185 wetland restoration and enhancement projects across the four states totaling over 151,000 acres, with the majority of these projects occurring on public lands. DU has also protected an additional 128,000 acres of private lands through our conservation easement program. Through both public lands restoration projects and private lands protection, DU is leading the way for wetlands conservation in the South Atlantic.

“Our on-the-ground conservation delivery programs have protected, restored and/or enhanced over 250,000 acres to date in the South Atlantic for waterfowl and other wetland dependant species,” said Craig LeSchack, Ducks Unlimited director of conservation programs for the South Atlantic Flyway.

“Our state, federal, and private partnerships contributed tremendously to our successes in the region, and we look forward to continuing these valued partnerships well into the future. At a total cost of over $66 million for all projects, we were able to match every DU dollar with over $7 in partner contributions.”

DU has also protected an additional 128,000 acres of private lands through 154 conservation easements in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia that have been donated to Wetlands America Trust. WAT’s principal role is the fiduciary responsibility for DU’s endowment and land holdings, including conservation easements. A mix of both public and private lands conservation is necessary to maintain healthy waterfowl populations.

“The Lowcountry Initiative is DU’s foundation for land protection in the South Atlantic,” said Chris Vaughn, Ducks Unlimited land protection coordinator. “Pressures from development present a particular concern for our region. Perpetual protection of habitats through conservation easements benefits not only waterfowl, but also provides clean water and open spaces for other wildlife and people, while protecting and enhancing our traditional way of life.”

Gifts from DU Major Sponsors that reside in the South Atlantic states have also played an enormous role in conserving habitat for ducks outside of our region, sending several million dollars to the breeding grounds that produce the majority of the Southeast’s wintering waterfowl.

“We are blessed with a passionate philanthropic family in the South Atlantic,” said Brett Baker, Ducks Unlimited director of development. “DU has conserved important waterfowl habitat on the breeding grounds as a direct result of major gifts from South Atlantic donors. Major Sponsor support of key initiatives on the breeding grounds, such as our Living Lakes and Grasslands for Tomorrow Initiatives, is fundamental to our success in saving the best areas for breeding ducks on the prairies. These individuals are stepping-up in a major way to make lasting contributions for the resource, and we can’t thank them enough.”

The South Atlantic is also home to thousands of dedicated DU members and volunteers. In fact, 16 of the President’s Top 100 DU chapters, based on Grassroots income, hail from the four- state region. “Thanks to the continued passion and efforts of our dedicated DU volunteers who coordinate our local events, we have enjoyed unprecedented growth and success throughout the region, while positively impacting important wetland habitats for the ducks at home and abroad,” noted Don Manley, Ducks Unlimited director of fund raising & volunteer relations.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

WASHINGTON, DC –-(AmmoLand.com)- A new report shows serious threats to South Carolina’s wetlands and streams – and to its waterfowl, fish, and wildlife.

Compiled by the National Wildlife Federation, Ducks Unlimited, and Trout Unlimited, the report identifies two case studies where the loss of Clean Water Act protections has put South Carolina waters at risk of federally unregulated pollution, and destruction.

As a result of regulatory guidance resulting from two Supreme Court cases in 2001 and 2006, tens of millions of acres of wetlands and thousands of miles of streams across the nation have been put at risk of losing Clean Water Act protections.

“Protecting wetlands and streams in South Carolina is critical to maintaining the habitats that support South Carolina’s wildlife and waterfowl,” said Jim Murphy of the National Wildlife Federation. “Sportsmen are a major economic force in South Carolina, and losing these water resources threatens that benefit.”

This report provides an overview of the waters at risk in South Carolina and documents two specific cases in South Carolina where important waterways have lost basic federal pollution protections or been placed at risk because of the confused state of the law.

Included among these are a large coastal wetland in the Murrells Inlet area in Horry County (known as the “Spectre Wetland”) and almost 500 acres of wetlands in the Black Tom Bay area in Berkeley County (known as the “Pine Hill Tract”) that eventually feed into Charleston Harbor. Protection of coastal and headwater wetlands such as those highlighted in the report will be particularly vital for the ability of people and wildlife to adapt to impacts from climate change such as rising sea levels and more intense precipitation events. It is almost certain that these waters would have been protected prior to the 2001 and 2006 Supreme Court decisions that weakened the Clean Water Act.

“The confusion and lack of clarity over what is and is not covered by the Clean Water Act threatens to undermine years of conservation efforts,” said Kim Diana Connolly, who helped compile the report. “These examples are indicative of the larger problem that this confusion is causing for America’s waterways.”

“TU, DU, the South Carolina Wildlife Federation, and the National Wildlife Federation, devote thousands of hours of volunteer effort, and hundreds of thousands of dollars, each year to restoring and protecting South Carolina’s waters which are at risk from the harmful Supreme Court decisions, said Steve Moyer, Vice President of Government Affairs for Trout Unlimited. “These waters need the full protection of the Clean Water Act.”

Read the report here

Please join leaders in South Carolina wildlife and fish habitat conservation to discuss a new report that shows serious threats to South Carolina’s streams, rivers, wetlands and other waters, and the wildlife, fish, and birds that inhabit them.

Ducks Unlimited

EARLY, Iowa –-(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources recently restored a marsh that will help improve downstream drinking water for Des Moines area residents.

With funding from the Environmental Protection Agency’s 319 Program, Iowa DNR and DU restored a 45-acre wetland on the Kiowa Marsh Wildlife Management Area in Sac County. The marsh is located in the Indian Creek watershed, which flows directly into the North Raccoon River, a major water source for Iowa’s largest and most populated city.

“Wetlands serve as Mother Nature’s kidneys. They are able to absorb and filter excess sediments and nutrients from entering downstream watersheds,” said Eric Lindstrom, DU regional biologist for Iowa. “By restoring Kiowa Marsh, not only are we providing critical wildlife habitat, but we are also helping to reduce the amount of pollution that enters downstream waters.”

Iowa’s Raccoon River fails to meet state drinking water standards due to high nitrate, phosphorus and E. coli levels. In fact, the river has the highest average nitrate concentration of any of the 42 largest tributaries in the entire Mississippi River Basin.

“The Raccoon River provides critical drinking water for more than 450,000 Iowans or roughly one-sixth of the state’s entire population,” said Chris Jones, Des Moines Water Works laboratory supervisor. DMWW, a public utility, treats water directly from the Raccoon River and its aquifer near downtown Des Moines and helps purify it for human and industrial use.

“On average, we will operate our nitrate removal system approximately 40-50 days per year, but the Raccoon River facility has operated as many as 106 days in a single year,” Jones said.

Once a drained shallow wetland, Kiowa Marsh is now part of a 1,200-acre public WMA owned and managed by the Iowa DNR and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. To restore natural wetland functions back to the marsh, DU engineers designed and constructed an earthen levee and installed a box culvert structure to periodically manipulate water levels. This structure was also designed with a fish barrier to deter non-native fish, like common carp, from entering and destroying the ecological balance of the wetland.

Two small excavated wetlands were also created upstream to filter runoff going into two drainage ditches that empty into the marsh. Lindstrom says these man-made drainages have for years served as a superhighway for soil particles and nutrient runoff that enter Kiowa Marsh and eventually flow into downstream creeks, rivers and reservoirs.

The total cost of these restoration efforts was nearly $300,000 and will pay back significant dividends to Des Moines area water users. Using high-tech computer mapping and modeling software, the Iowa DNR is able to evaluate downstream water quality benefits of these wetland restoration efforts. Their modeling results predict that the restored wetlands will reduce sediment delivery to Indian Creek by approximately 652 tons/year and will help trap and recycle an estimated 847 tons of phosphorus per year.

“Kiowa Marsh represents a win-win project with dual wildlife and water quality benefits for Iowans that use the Raccoon River drainage system, said Mike Mahn, Iowa DNR Area Wildlife Manager. “By itself, it may seem somewhat inconsequential, but as one project in a suite of other positive land use changes that can occur throughout the watershed, we will begin to see substantial improvements in downstream water quality.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

Hawkins, TX –-(AmmoLand.com)- Ozarka Brand Natural Spring Water has donated $30,000 to Ducks Unlimited for wetland conservation efforts in Texas.

The partnership is designed to benefit wetlands throughout Texas and around Ozarka’s bottled water facility in Hawkins.

“Ozarka fully recognizes the importance of wetlands to protecting clean water as well as to waterfowl and wildlife habitat,” Sean Stone, DU Director of Development said.

“They practice sustainable water management, utilizing the resource responsibly while ensuring an ample supply is available to support a healthy wetlands environment. Expanding on that environmental stewardship, Ozarka’s generous grant will not only improve wetlands surrounding their own facility, but will also support wetland restoration efforts along the Texas Gulf Coast.”

Ozarka’s bottling facility is located on a 2,500-acre site containing an abundance of high quality springs and spring-fed forested wetlands.

“We are very excited to be involved with Ducks Unlimited, the world leader in wetlands conservation, and are proud to partner with an organization that shares our passion for the environment and sustainable land management practices,” said David Feckley, Senior Natural Resource Manager for Ozarka. “Our bottling operations in Hawkins only use a small portion of water for bottling, leaving the majority to supply the wetlands downstream. It is our goal through this partnership to ensure these waters are managed in a way that sustains wetlands and their associated species, and to support important wetlands conservation initiatives throughout the Lone Star State.”

In Hawkins, active wetland management will improve wetland areas that provide critical habitat for migratory and wintering waterfowl and benefit breeding wood ducks and other resident waterbirds and wildlife species. Ducks Unlimited biologists and engineers expect this partnership and the associated projects to continue through 2010.

About Ozarka
Ozarka® Brand Natural Spring Water, founded in 1905, has led bottled water sales in Texas for three decades. Based in Dallas, TX, Ozarka has been a division of Nestlé Waters North America Inc. since 1987. Central to the leadership of Nestlé Waters North America Inc. is its 34-year history and single-focus on producing bottled water products. The company’s dedication to product quality, manufacturing expertise, efficient production, employee development and environmental stewardship, especially in the areas of water use, energy and packaging, has helped Nestlé Waters become the number one bottled water company in the U.S. To reach success, the company follows its credo: Respect for each other, respect for the environment, and respect for the community. To learn more, please visit www.ozarkawater.com and www.nestle-watersna.com

About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

Ducks Unlimited

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla –-(AmmoLand.com)- For over 15 years, Ducks Unlimited has worked with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to secure the future of waterfowl habitat and Oklahoma’s hunting heritage.

Soon to be completed improvements on Waurika Wildlife Management Area make it the tenth WMA to benefit from the partnership. The completed project will allow area managers to provide quality hunting opportunities on over 120 acres of seasonal wetlands.

“Improvements to the Beaver Creek Wetland Development Unit at the Waurika WMA are wrapping up and should be completed soon,” said DU Manager of Conservation Programs Eric Held. “Ducks Unlimited, Inc. and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation have worked together to ensure this area will continue to provide waterfowl hunting opportunities for Oklahoma’s sportsmen for years to come.”

This is the 10th state WMA in Oklahoma on which Ducks Unlimited’s engineers and biologists have provided the professional services required to complete wetland habitat improvements.

“DU’s expertise has been invaluable, and their engineering and financial support have played a critical role in restoring and enhancing habitat on our publicly-managed wetland projects,” said Alan Peoples, chief of wildlife for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Since 1995, improvements have been made to nearly 8,000 acres of wetland habitat at the Copan, Eufaula, Fort Cobb, Hackberry, McClellan-Kerr, Mountain Park, Oologah, Red Slough, Waurika and Wister Wildlife Management Areas.

Ducks Unlimited conservation staff is able to provide professional services as a result of the support garnered by its many volunteers and members, at a direct cost of more than $675,000.

“Ducks Unlimited’s many supporters throughout Oklahoma have provided the funding that allows these projects to take place” stated Charles Hurlburt, DU State Chairman. “Seven additional wetland projects are underway and being led by DU engineers and biologists.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved nearly 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.