How can you help
The implications of continued habitat loss are sobering for all of us who have a passion for the ducks. But much can be done to prevent the gloomy scenario described earlier from coming to pass. First, DU is working with a broad coalition of conservation and commodity partners to ensure sound agricultural policies are crafted to benefit both agricultural producers and the ducks. DU is leading an effort to eliminate current incentives to convert native prairie to cropland (see sidebar on Sodsaver). DU is also working closely with conservation and commodity partners and congressional staff who will develop the next Farm Bill to ensure that adequate CRP acreage is maintained in the PPR, where it can continue to benefit ducks and other wildlife.
When Congress begins crafting the next Farm Bill, it will be critically important for all who have an interest in waterfowl to make their voices heard by calling or writing their congressional representatives. Regular updates and opportunities to take action will be posted on the DU website.
In addition, DU is working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to purchase perpetual grassland easements from landowners across the Dakotas and Montana. These landowners want to ensure their lands remain prairie grasslands. Currently, nearly 700 landowners have indicated interest in protecting more than 281,000 acres, but funding is insufficient to meet the demand. In this case, the science is clear, and the landowners are fully onboard. We just need the funding to protect the habitat.
Individuals interested in helping perpetually protect grasslands and wetlands on the most important duck breeding areas can now contribute funds directly to this effort. Simply go online at www.ducks.org and donate directly to DU's North American Grasslands Conservation Initiative or contact Dave Afton at DU's Great Plains Office (701-355-3511) about making major gifts in support of prairie habitat conservation.
Today, we face significant challenges across the continent's most important waterfowl breeding area. But the choices are clear for those who have a passion for waterfowl—either seize the opportunity to maintain the grasslands and wetlands needed to fill the skies with ducks, or lament the hollow legacy we will leave the next generation. If you care about the future of waterfowl, seize the opportunity now.