In April 2008, Ducks Unlimited (DU) concluded a four-year North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to protect, restore and enhance wetlands and associated uplands throughout the Grand River watershed.  The $1 million Grand River Watershed Project NAWCA grant was awarded to DU in April 2004 on behalf of a partnership including eight conservation organizations.  DU and these partners together pledged over $3.7 million in matching funds to the grant, which resulted in the conservation of 2,403 acres of wetlands and associated habitats on public and private land. Included in the accomplishments is the acquisition and protection of 990 acres of existing or restorable waterfowl habitat, including acquisition of the Malan and Edger Waterfowl Production Areas in Jackson and Barry counties, and the Bakale property at Bass River Recreation Area.  An additional 1,413 acres of wetlands and native grasslands were restored or enhanced on public and private land.  In total, 170 projects were completed through this e?ort.  Project partners include the Kent County Parks Department, Michigan Audubon Society, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Duck Hunters’ Association – Macatawa Bay and State Chapters, Pheasants Forever and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

 DU and our partners conserved 2,403 acres in the Grand River watershed.