The Ducks Unlimited Governmental Affairs Office organized the fly-in to coincide with the Annual DU Capitol Hill Dinner and Auction, a fundraising event widely attended by members of Congress, congressional staff and local DU supporters. The GAO staff scheduled DU volunteers for more than 30 appointments with our nation's top policymakers. Some of the lawmakers DU visited with included Sen. James Inhofe (OK), Sen. Roy Blunt (MO), Rep. Mike Simpson (ID), Rep. Steve Scalise (LA), Rep. John Carney (DE) and Rep. George Miller (CA). DU volunteers showcased how waterfowl-related initiatives, such as the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, positively impact the economies of local communities across the nation.

"Hunters and anglers generate almost $80 billion in the U.S. economy each year. In a time when the federal government is forced to scale back its budget, it is essential that elected officials understand the positive economic impact conservation programs provide for our nation," Scott Sutherland, director of the Governmental Affairs Office for DU, said. "These meetings provide a great way for DU to educate Congress and other national leaders on how important waterfowl-related issues are to their constituents."