An anonymous donor gave the land to DU, asking that it be transferred to the state for long-term management and public use.

The property is located in Wells County along the Missouri Coteau, an area supporting some of the continent’s best duck nesting habitat. “We’re glad this land will be managed for waterfowl and other wildlife by the state,” said Jeff Nelson, director of the GPRO. “These properties contain valuable habitat in an area that has the potential of attracting 80 to 100 duck pairs per square mile.”

Nelson says many prairie ducks nest in grasslands surrounding small wetlands. They often have the highest nesting success rates in large expanses of grass, like that existing in association with these properties, “We’re grateful to this conservation-minded donor for seeing the inherent value in keeping this land in grass and wanting it to be available for public use,” Nelson said.

The land will be open to public hunting, helping to provide more opportunities for quality outdoor experiences each fall. “We’re pleased to have played a part in securing this habitat while supporting North Dakota’s proud hunting heritage through the gift of this land. We look forward to continuing our close partnership with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department,” he said.

These two parcels of land will be a significant valuable addition to the state system of wildlife management areas,” said Terry Steinwand, director of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.