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Kankakee Valley Chapter - Beretta 687 O/U Set Auction The Kankakee Valley Chapter of Ducks Unlimited is offering a unique opportunity for any collector of fine firearms. As a result of a generous donation, KVDU is able to offer four matched Ducks Unlimited Edition Beretta 687 EL shotguns in the gauges 12, 20, 28, and .410. In addition to the firearms with individual fitted Beretta cases and documentary paperwork, a custom oak display case is offered as well.

2015 Indiana DU Calendar Gun Giveaway

2014 Indiana Calendar Raffle

NAWCA Grant Will Help Acquire Additional Habitat in Indiana Ducks Unlimited was recently awarded a $1 million North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant, which will be used to significantly expand the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in southwestern Indiana. The grant will be matched by more than $2 million in partner funds to acquire nearly 3,000 acres of wetlands and adjacent uplands.

2014 Guns of the Year Raffle

Ducks Unlimited Inc., Ducks Unlimited Canada support ecological separation of Great Lakes MILWAUKEE, Wis. - Sept. 9, 2013 - Ducks Unlimited Inc. (DUI) and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) jointly released a statement this week on the threat to the Great Lakes presented by non-native carp. The conservation groups called on governmental and non-governmental organizations to move toward the ecological separation of the Great Lakes watershed as soon as possible, as part of a comprehensive strategy to protect the Great Lakes from Asian carp and other invasive species.

Ducks Unlimited applauds improvements in Great Lakes funding ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Aug. 2, 2013 - Ducks Unlimited appreciates the passage of an amendment to provide $210 million to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) program. Previously a subcommittee had reduced funding for the successful program to $60 million.

Great Lakes Initiative Protecting the pristine waters of the Great Lakes and conserving critical habitat for many species of waterfowl that utilize this vast watershed throughout their life cycle.

Big Rivers Initiative Restoring feeding and resting areas along the river that make up the Mississippi River floodplain and the conserving habitat critical to the grand passage of migratory waterfowl.

Ducks Unlimited Sweet 16 university chapters recognized for outstanding volunteer, fundraising efforts MEMPHIS, Tenn. - March 27, 2013 - Each spring, Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 list of top-producing volunteer university chapters throughout the nation. This elite group is considered the best of the best when it comes to fundraising and overall chapter strength.

More Land Acquired for Wildlife in Indiana Ducks Unlimited recently joined the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to acquire the 1,043-acre Columbia Mine property adjoining Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in southern Indiana.

DU's John Tomke reappointed as chairman of federal conservation, hunting council MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Aug. 17, 2012 - John Tomke, former Ducks Unlimited Inc. president and current president of Ducks Unlimited de Mexico, has been reappointed chairman of the Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council (WHHCC) by President Obama. Tomke was first named chairman in July 2010.

DU supports opening some CRP lands for drought-stricken ranchers MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Aug. 3, 2012 - Ducks Unlimited supports opening certain Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) lands to haying and grazing during the current drought affecting livestock feed supplies. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack opened nearly 4 million acres of CRP land this week for livestock producers dealing with shortages of hay and pastureland.

Evansville Chapter recognized nationally EVANSVILLE, Ind. – March 15, 2012 – The President's Top 100 is one of the most highly sought- after titles of recognition Ducks Unlimited offers to chapters throughout the nation. This past fall, the Evansville Chapter made the Top 100 list as one of the organization's best fundraising chapters.

Governor signs gaming legislation Waterfowl and other wildlife will be the ultimate beneficiaries of legislation signed by Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels last Friday.

Ducks Unlimited Sweet 16 university chapters recognized for outstanding volunteer, fundraising efforts in 2011 MEMPHIS, Tenn. - March 23, 2012 - Each spring, Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 list of top-producing volunteer university chapters throughout the nation.

Indiana Ducks Unlimited license plate available now INDIANAPOLIS - March 1, 2012 - Ducks Unlimited leaders want Indiana residents to know that the new DU license plate is available for purchase at Bureau of Motor Vehicles locations across the state.

Get an Indiana Ducks Unlimited license plate today Support DU in Indiana by getting an Indiana DU license plate.

Indiana: Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area has undergone significant restoration work over the past few years.

Kiwani Marsh Dedication—Indiana Oct. 2011: Glorious weather in northwest Indiana was the backdrop for an October Indiana PRIDE dedication at the Kiwani Marsh.

Migration Alert: N. Indiana seeing migration increase Nov. 4, 2011: Hunters who can find spots with wood ducks and green-winged teal will continue having the best success for now.

The Feather Society

INDU Newsletters View past issues of Indiana DU state newsletters in PDF format.

Presidential Citations

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Indiana Chapters

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Indiana native named to DU Board of Directors

DU license plate approved in Indiana Need 500 sales to start producing plates; Proceeds go towards Indiana waterfowl habitat

Purdue University Chapter Recognized Nationally Purdue DU Chapter receives Presidential Gold Citation

President's Elite Chapters Rise to the Top Each year a select group of Ducks Unlimited chapters rises to the top of the ranks: the President's Elite chapters, which raise $100,000 or more annually for DU's habitat conservation work. This year, 43 DU chapters achieved President's Elite status.

2011 Wetland Conservation Achievement Awards KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 18, 2011 – Ducks Unlimited announced today the winners of the 2011 Wetland Conservation Achievement Awards at the 76th annual North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Kansas City, Mo.

Chapter Spotlight: Indy Sponsor Chapter When the governor, two past presidents of DU and the current president of DU all plan to attend your sponsor event, you want to pull out all the stops.

Ducks Unlimited names new GLARO director ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Nov. 2, 2010 - Rebecca Humphries, director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment, has accepted the position of director of the Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office for Ducks Unlimited.

Ducks Unlimited Recognizes Indiana Governor, Celebrates Acquisition, Restoration Ducks Unlimited presented Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels today with a Conservation Leadership Award recognizing the governor’s efforts to make Indiana a leader in public land conservation. The award presentation took place at Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area during a celebration attended by conservationists to acknowledge the acquisition and ongoing restoration of the more than 8,000-acre property.

Chapter Spotlight: Wa-Nee Chapter There's new life among the Wa-Nee Chapter, and it shows!

Ducks Unlimited's Tomke named chairman of federal conservation, hunting council MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 23, 2010 – John Tomke, former DU president and current president of Ducks Unlimited de Mexico, has been named chairman of the new Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council. Tomke was named to the council earlier today by U. S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. His position as chairman was confirmed by those federal departments this afternoon.

DU Patriots! The guys and gals of Crown Point Ducks Unlimited brought the marsh to the streets for this 4th of July weekend.

Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels announces effort to conserve 43,000 acres TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - June 11, 2010 - Bottomland hardwood habitat and riverfront marshes have disappeared in Indiana at an incredible rate, but Ducks Unlimited and its partners are working with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to conserve crucial migration habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds in the state.

Governor announces second major land conservation project Governor announces second major land conservation project SCOTTSBURG, Indiana (June 11, 2010) - Governor Mitch Daniels today announced a second major land conservation project in as many days - this one targeting more than 25,600 acres along the Muscatatuck River known as Muscatatuck Bottoms in Scott, Jackson and Washington counties.

Ducks Unlimited, partners awarded Great Lakes restoration grant ANN ARBOR, Mich. – April 26, 2010 – Ducks Unlimited received one of the first Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) grants through the Sustain Our Great Lakes program this past week. DU and its partners will restore coastal streams and marshes in northern Michigan using the $783,823 grant.

NAWCA funds support conservation at Goose Pond ANN ARBOR, Mich. – April 8, 2010 - Ducks Unlimited was recently awarded a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to restore approximately 200 acres in southwestern Indiana, known as “Field B” at the Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA). Project partners include Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), National Wild Turkey Federation, and Duke Energy. The NAWCA grant will allow partners to restore and enhance this degraded wetland for the benefit of breeding and migrating waterfowl, other wetland wildlife and the public.

Ducks Unlimited "Sweet 16" collegiate chapters recognized nationally Purdue University Chapter plays a vital role in supporting conservation efforts West Lafayette, Ind. - March 25, 2010 - As the collegiate basketball world heads into the “Sweet 16,” Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 college chapters throughout the U.S. The Purdue Chapter made it into the elite group out of nearly 120 DU collegiate chapters.

$1 million NAWCA grant to fund Indiana conservation secured by Ducks Unlimited ANN ARBOR, Mich. – March 24, 2010 – The North American Wetlands Conservation Council recently approved Ducks Unlimited and its conservation partners' proposal for a one-million dollar North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to protect and restore wetland habitat along the Wabash River Corridor in Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Sullivan, Greene, Knox, Daviess, Gibson and Pike Counties of Indiana. The majority of this project area has been selected for the creation of the Indiana Department of Natural Resource's (IDNR) new Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA).

New funding pushes Wabashiki project closer to completion. The proposed 6,000-acre Wabashiki River Fish and Wildlife Area near Terre Haute moved a giant step closer to fruition with the March 10 announcement that the national Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has approved $1 million in federal funds toward the project. The funding for Indiana, part of The Prairie Lakes Wetland Initiative, is half of the grant money approval that Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced. The money awarded is aimed at protecting and restoring 7,107 acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat in Indiana and Iowa under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). Indiana’s $1 million share in the federal funds and an additional $2,353,417 in partner contributions will support the Indiana project.

Ducks Unlimited urges partnership in carp solution Conservation group releases position on invasive Asian carp WASHINGTON - Feb. 28, 2010 - This week, Ducks Unlimited released its position on the threat to the Great Lakes presented by non-native carp. DU called on both governmental and non-governmental organizations to develop an immediate short-term plan, followed by a comprehensive long-term strategy to deal with Asian carp in the Great Lakes.

SportDOG Brand announces recipients of 2009 Conservation Fund grants KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Feb. 2, 2010 - SportDOG Brand has awarded $19,300 to four conservation groups as part of its annual SportDOG Conservation Fund grant program. Award recipients were chosen by the company's Conservation Fund Grant Review Committee.

NAWCA grant to fund Ducks Unlimited, partners moves one step closer Funding likely for wetland protection and restoration within the Wabash River Corridor ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Jan. 8, 2010 – The North American Wetlands Conservation Council recently recommended Ducks Unlimited be awarded a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to protect and restore wetland habitat along the Wabash River Corridor in Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Sullivan, Greene, Knox, Daviess, Gibson, and Pike Counties of Indiana. A portion of this project area has also been selected for the creation of the Indiana Department of Natural Resource’s (IDNR) new Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA.) This FWA will be situated along a 17-mile stretch of the Wabash River, ultimately encompassing thousands of acres of bottomland forest and floodplain wetlands.

Groups join forces to protect local habitat Land purchase one piece in larger conservation puzzle TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – December 10, 2009 – The conservation group Ducks Unlimited has partnered with state government and other organizations to acquire and permanently protect wetlands along the Wabash River south of Terre Haute, Indiana. This acquisition has the potential to join several others in the area to protect extensive, continuous waterfowl and wildlife habitat.

President signs legislation in support of Great Lakes ANN ARBOR, Michigan November 2, 2009 Historic legislation aimed at the restoring the Great Lakes was signed by President Obama Friday after the House and Senate approved the measure last week. According to Ducks Unlimited, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative will provide $475 million for a comprehensive program to restore and protect the Great Lakes. Ducks Unlimited stands ready to turn this financial commitment into cleaner water and better habitat for waterfowl, wildlife and citizens of the Great Lakes and beyond.

Conservationists support investment in Great Lakes Ann Arbor, Mich. – May 20, 2009 – Ducks, geese and swans in the Great Lakes could realize an increase in the size and quality of their habitat if President Obama’s proposed budget for Great Lakes Restoration Initiative comes to fruition. The budget for 2010 contains an additional $475 million for Great Lakes restoration and economic recovery.

INDIANA RECOGNIZED AS TOP PERFOMER Indiana earns 7th place among all states at Ducks Unlimited National Convention

Greenwings Migrate to Place Trail Marsh Greenwings Migrate to Place Trail Marsh

Purdue DU joins Basketball Teams in the annual Sweet Sixteen Purdue DU joins Basketball Teams in the annual Sweet Sixteen

Habitat Enhancement Project Complete at Goose Pond FWA Public and Private Entities Join Together for Conservation

Indiana wetlands to benefit from Duke Energy Foundation and DU partnership Focus will be on public land habitat enhancement and conservation policy issues in the state

Duke Energy Foundation supports Indiana conservation efforts Duke Energy Foundation supports Indiana conservation efforts Ducks Unlimited says funding for wetlands part of ongoing partnership Ducks Unlimited recently received a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation.

DU Makes Changes in Eastern Great Lakes Staff New Director of Fundraising for Indiana, Michigan and Ohio Memphis, Tenn. – There has been a change in Ducks Unlimited staff for the eastern Great Lakes states of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.

Ducks Unlimited Addresses Indiana Flooding Long-term solutions best answer to extreme weather events MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 3, 2008 - In the weeks that follow a flooding event, authorities are providing immediate assistance to those suffering from the disaster, but they are also looking for answers to help provide residents with better protection in the future.

INDIANA DUCKS UNLIMITED HOSTS ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION Indianapolis, Ind., April 10, 2008 – Indiana Ducks Unlimited’s state convention will take place on April 18 and 19. Volunteers, staff and conservation partners will gather at the Holiday Inn Pyramids in Indianapolis to celebrate “Full Halls - Full Skies” and the state’s 2007 accomplishments. More than 20,000 acres of wetlands and associated habitats have been conserved in Indiana to date, and the state boasts 10,500 members. Events will include educational seminars, outdoor vendors, raffles and auctions.

New online map allows users firsthand, interactive experience of black duck migration If you’re interested in taking bird watching to the next level, Ducks Unlimited has the perfect tool for you. This month, Ducks Unlimited’s Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office unveiled an updated version of its Black Duck Research Initiative Web site, including an all-new interactive mapping tool allowing users to “Follow the Ducks” using satellite and VHF radio tracking technology.

DU meets with Congressional leadership and Administration officials to discuss conservation WASHINGTON – February 13, 2008 – Ducks Unlimited Executive Vice President Don Young was joined by other wildlife conservation organizations today to deliver a strong message on behalf of sportsmen and habitat: protect and expand habitat conservation and opportunities for sportsmen.

Ducks Unlimited’s Black Duck Research Initiative brought to life on Web New online map allows users firsthand, interactive experience of black duck migration ANN ARBOR, Mich., Feb. 8, 2008 – If you’re interested in taking bird watching to the next level, Ducks Unlimited has the perfect tool for you.

Lawmaker contacted by DU State Chair over Huntinng Rights. Lawmaker contacted by DU State Chair over Huntinng Rights.

President’s Budget proposal mixed on waterfowl programs FY’09 request maintains some programs, cuts others--including Bush priorities WASHINGTON, February 4, 2008 – Conservation programs that benefit waterfowl receive mixed support in the 2009 budget proposal, released today by the Bush administration.

Ducks Unlimited commemorates millionth acre of Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Joins Secretary of Agriculture in marking the conservation milestone WASHINGTON – January 17, 2008 – Ducks Unlimited and the US Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency celebrated the enrollment of the one millionth acre into the popular Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) today.

DU says CRP losses astounding National trend for habitat loss concerning BISMARCK, ND, January 4, 2008 – The conservation organization Ducks Unlimited says it’s as if someone plowed up a three-mile swath of wildlife habitat across North Dakota, from its southern border to Canada.

Duke Energy completes $1M commitment to wetland restoration Ducks Unlimited honors Duke partnership with diamond legacy award CINCINNATI, Ohio, Nov. 6, 2007 – Ducks Unlimited conservation staff met with representatives from Duke Energy in on Tuesday morning in Cincinnati to honor the completion of Duke’s $1 million commitment to wetlands restoration in Indiana. Duke received DU’s Diamond Legacy award and a bronze sculpture for their contribution.

Ducks Unlimited biologist Jason Hill wins national award. Ann Arbor: Jason Hill, a Ducks Unlimited regional biologist, earned the 2006 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wetlands Group Assisted Individual Conservation Award for his outstanding work on behalf of Indiana wetlands. The National Wetlands Conservation Award program began in 1990 to honor Fish and Wildlife Service private sector partners for their efforts to restore and improve wetlands across the nation.

Funding needed now or popular wetlands program dies Goose Pond example of Wetlands Reserve Program success ELKHART, Ind., August 30, 2007 – It’s a wetlands oasis that draws waterfowl, other wildlife and people from miles around. For decades, it frustrated Greene County, Indiana farmers who struggled to get a crop from its swampy bottoms. Now, Goose Pond is one of the nation’s largest Wetlands Reserve Program easements. Its nearly 7,200 acres make it a model of success for the popular farm bill conservation program.

Federal Duck Stamp unveiled in unprecedented event Clarksville, Indiana, July 11, 2007 - Bass Pro Shops, the Fish and Wildlife Service and Ducks Unlimited recently unveiled this year’s Federal Duck Stamp in a unique nationwide event. The unveiling was celebrated at Bass Pro Shops’ Springfield, Mo., flagship store, and at all 42 Bass Pro Shops stores across the country, including the Clarksville and Portage, Indiana locations. Indiana State Chairman, Frank Wolka, Jr, of Vallonia, spoke at the Clarksville location, where he bought the first Federal and Junior Duck Stamps issued this year in Indiana.

House Ag. Chair Moves to Fund Wetlands and Waterfowl Conservation - IN WASHINGTON, July 2, 2007 – U. S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson’s (MN) wants to make conservation a top priority in this year’s farm bill reauthorization. The chairman recently unveiled a new legislative approach that would save the Wetlands Reserve Program and protect native prairie.

Ducks Unlimited names Knox County farmer 2007 Indiana Volunteer Conservationist of the Year VINCENNES, Ind. – May 28, 2007 – Ducks Unlimited (DU) volunteer Ray McCormick was honored as Indiana Volunteer Conservationist of the Year on April 21, during DU’s annual state convention in Indianapolis. Each year the award is presented by the DU Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office to recognize and show appreciation for exceptional conservation and fundraising efforts on the part of a volunteer who has helped to advance DU’s mission in Indiana.

Capitol visit successful for Indiana farmer VINCENNES, Ind. – June 12, 2007 – Ray McCormick, a Vincennes, Ind., landowner, joined three other landowners from Ohio, Tennessee and Mississippi in Washington, D.C., on May 22-24, as part of the Ducks Unlimited-sponsored farmer fly-in program. Through this program, farmers fly to D.C. to educate and inform legislators of the importance of the 2007 Farm Bill Conservation Provisions, and specifically funding for the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) as part of the Farm Bill conservation title.

Indiana Ducks Unlimited Wins National Award MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 6, 2007 – Ducks Unlimited named Indiana a “Top 10” state for its efforts to promote conservation among Indiana’s youth. At its annual convention in Anchorage, Alaska, May 25-26, Indiana received the prestigious “2006 Project Webfoot/Greenwing National Award,” named for Ducks Unlimited’s two national youth programs.

Hayden Elementary Students Participate in Jr. Duck Stamp Contest On April 9, 2007 a group of Hayden Elementary Students will be judged on their submmissions of artwork and will visit the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge to learn about wetlands and everything to do with them.

DNR Public Hearing on One Buck Rule Proposal DNR Public Hearing on One Buck Rule Proposal ---------------------------------------------- The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has scheduled a public hearing to receive comments on a proposal to extend the one buck-rule for an additional five years. The hearing will be Tuesday, March 27, at 1:30 p.m. (Local Time) at the Indiana Government Center South, Conference Center Room 1, in Indianapolis. The Indiana Government Center South is located at 402 W. Washington St. in downtown Indianapolis....

Restoring Habitat in the Heartland NOBLE COUNTY, Ind., February 12, 2007 - For nearly a century, farmers and the government have fought to keep water off of one low-lying, 20-acre wetland basin in northeastern Indiana. That is, until Gary Franklin, a farmer from Noble County decided to restore his land back to what it used to be – a thriving wetland near the Elkhart River.

Wetlands Aren’t Just for the Ducks: Endangered Whooping Cranes Depend Upon Wetland Habitats - IN One of North America’s best-known endangered species, the Whooping Crane, saw its numbers dwindle to just 15 birds in the early 1940s. Today the population has grown to nearly 500 birds but still faces threats from oil and chemical spills, power lines, disease, and loss of wetland habitat.

Ducks Unlimited Deems Tim Hayes of Duke Energy, Indiana Conservation Partner of the Year On Tuesday, August 8th, during Duke Energy’s dedication ceremony for the Cane Ridge Wildlife Area near Princeton, Ducks Unlimited (DU) honored Tim Hayes of Duke Energy as Indiana Conservation Partner of the Year. Each year the award is presented by the Ducks Unlimited Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office to recognize and show appreciation for exceptional conservation partnerships with DU. Tim has gone above and beyond the call of duty as a partner to DU, and through his hard work and devotion to conservation, has helped to further DU’s mission of wetland conservation throughout the state.

Endangered Species Respond Well to Unique Restoration Project A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) – Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area revealed an overwhelming response by the federally endangered Interior Least Tern to the recently completed Interior Least Tern Unit Project. A total of 65 adult terns tending to 23 nests containing 64 eggs were observed in mid-June. Significant measures to reduce predation has successfully aided in the establishment of this large Tern nesting colony.

DU & CropLife America Partnership Results in Herbicide to Establish Native Prairie Habitat CropLife America member company, recently donated more than $12,000 of Roundup® Pro herbicide to Ducks Unlimited (DU) for establishing native warm season grasses on private lands in northeast Indiana.

Endangered Species Respond Well to Restoration Project at Cane Ridge WMA A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) – Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area revealed an overwhelming response by the federally endangered Interior Least Tern to the recently completed Interior Least Tern Unit Project.

Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area Project – Interior Least Tern Unit Complete In continuing their work to conserve, preserve and restore wetlands, Ducks Unlimited’s (DU) Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office has identified the Ohio/Mississippi River confluence as a high priority focus area in which to continue their work.

Indiana Volunteer Frank Wolka Jr. Deemed Conservationist of the Year! During Ducks Unlimited’s (DU) annual state convention in Columbus, IN, Ducks Unlimited volunteer, Frank Wolka Jr. was honored as Indiana Conservationist of the Year!

Upper Mississippi River An overview of Ducks Unlimited's habitat conservation work in the Upper Mississippi River priority area

U.S. Great Lakes System An overview of Ducks Unlimited's U.S. Great Lakes System priority area.

Purdue Collegiate Chapter In the midst of March Madness the Purdue Collegiate Chapter of Ducks Unlimited has made the Sweet 16 both on and off the court. The lone Hoosier state chapter has made great strides in four short years.

Where Indiana's Ducks Come From The Prairie Pothole Region is critical to Indiana waterfowl hunters. A significant portion of the ducks that travel through our state each year originate in this important breeding area.

Dillin Moist Soil Wetlands Bulldozers have moved off site and the dirt has settled at the Dillin wetland restoration project site! Located near Pikeville, Indiana, the restoration project is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Indiana Four Rivers Project, North American Wetlands Conservation Council and Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to restore 67 acres of wetlands at the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge.

Weyerbacher Moist Soil Wetland (Posey County) Located in southwest Indiana in the floodplain of the Ohio River, the Weyerbacher wetland restoration has become the latest addition to the Hovey Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. DU designed and delivered this 35-acre moist soil managed wetland.

DU and Cinergy Corp Partnership DU and Cinergy Corp. have had a long-standing agreement to reforest seasonally flooded bottomlands in southern Indiana. This agreement was recently modified to shift the focus to acquisition of cleared bottomlands, planting trees on those acquired lands, and then selling them on to the U.S. Fish and wildlife Service to become part of the Patoka River NWR.

Place Trail Marsh Bulldozers have moved off site and the dirt has settled at the Place Trail Marsh wetland restoration project site! Located near Walkerton, Indiana, the restoration project is a collaborative effort between the St. Joseph County Parks Department, Indiana Grand Kankakee Marsh Restoration Project, North American Wetlands Conservation Council and Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to restore 170 acres of wetlands at the Place Trail Marsh County Park.

Northeast Indiana Pothole Initiative Now in our sixth program year, DU, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Indiana DNR and Pheasants Forever continue to work collaboratively to restore wetlands and associated grasslands on private lands in an eight county region of northeastern Indiana, including Allen, Dekalb, Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben and Whitley counties.

Beaver Dam DU and a host of conservation partners, including Lake County Parks, Indiana DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Southern Lake Michigan Coastal Wetlands Project, continue work to restore wetland and upland habitat on the 240-acre Deep River Headwaters County Park and adjacent 18-acre Beaver Dam Wetland Conservation Area. DU has completed the design and is awaiting permit approval to deliver the restoration of 3 wetlands on the property which include a 16-acre emergent wetland, an 18-acre wooded wetland and a second emergent marsh that could top 190-acres!

Goose Pond and Beehunter Marsh On November 8 th , a host of conservation partners joined together at the Triple H Gun Club to celebrate the Indiana Department of Natural Resource’s (IDNR) purchase of 8,000 acres commonly known as Goose Pond. On hand to convey the importance wetland conservation and public benefits stemming from this joint effort was Gov. Mitch Daniels, John Tomke (Ducks Unlimited), Kyle Hupfer, (IDNR), Robyn Thorson (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service) and Mary McConnell (The Nature Conservancy).

Cane Ridge Wildlife Area Construction of the Interior Least Tern Unit of the Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area is now complete. This unique project is a cooperative effort between several conservation partners including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Cinergy Corp. and Ducks Unlimited.

Indiana Conservation Projects Ducks Unlimited habitat conservation projects in Indiana. These projects benefit waterfowl, other wildlife and people. View sample projects, project map and more.

Fisher Lumber Company Acquisition (Warrick and Spencer Counties) DU, along with a host of conservation partners, including the Indiana DNR, Wabash Heritage Land Trust, Four Rivers RC&D, Southwest Indiana Four Rivers Project and others have successfully acquired this 235-acre bottomland property. The Fisher tract is bisected by Little Pigeon Creek and provides a diversity of high-quality bottomland wetland habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife.

Potucek (Newton County) The Potucek project is part of the LaSalle State Fish and Wildlife Area in northwest Indiana and was completed as a cooperative effort between the Indiana DNR, Indiana Grand Kankakee Marsh Restoration Project and Ducks Unlimited. Twelve generous and dedicated conservationists secured funds for this project through life sponsorships to Ducks Unlimited.

Miller Acquisition (Pike County) DU recently contributed funds toward acquisition of this 80-acre bottomland parcel for Patoka River NWR. This floodplain property contains portions of two ancient Patoka River oxbows and large stands of hardwood timber and is bordered by state land on two sides.

Roland Riparian Restoration Dedicated On November 2, the Bedford DU committee, U.S. Forest Service, Indiana Department of Natural Resources and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service held a dedication ceremony to celebrate the Roland Wetland Complex. This outstanding partnership restored 165 acres of floodplain wetlands adjacent to the Lost River that are now permanently protected as part of the Hoosier National Forest.

Russell Acquisition (Allen County) DU recently assisted the Little River Wetlands Project in acquiring the 37-acre Russell Tract. This drained wetland property lies adjacent to the 60-acre Buell Tract that DU helped acquire in 2001. These properties, located in the floodplain of the Little Wabash River, combine to make up the Aboite Wetlands (aka Arrowhead Marsh) and have been enrolled in WRP under a permanent conservation easement.

No-till Drill Acquisition DU, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Eel River Chapter of Pheasants Forever recently partnered to acquire a Great Plains no-till prairie drill for use in northeast Indiana. This drill will be used to plant native warm season grasses on projects under the Northeast Indiana Pothole Initiative.

Deep River Headwaters (Lake County) DU and a host of conservation partners, including Lake County Parks, Indiana DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Southern Lake Michigan Coastal Wetlands Project, are working to restore wetland and upland habitat on the 240-acre Deep River Headwaters County Park and adjacent 18-acre Beaver Dam Wetland Conservation Area. DU is designing and will deliver the restoration of 3 wetlands on the property which include a 16-acre emergent wetland, an 18-acre wooded wetland and a second emergent marsh that could top 190-acres!

Kankakee Valley Chapter - Beretta 687 O/U Set Auction

The Kankakee Valley Chapter of Ducks Unlimited is offering a unique opportunity for any collector of fine firearms. As a result of a generous donation, KVDU is able to offer four matched Ducks Unlimited Edition Beretta 687 EL shotguns in the gauges 12, 20, 28, and .410. In addition to the firearms with individual fitted Beretta cases and documentary paperwork, a custom oak display case is offered as well.

2015 Indiana DU Calendar Gun Giveaway

2014 Indiana Calendar Raffle

NAWCA Grant Will Help Acquire Additional Habitat in Indiana

Ducks Unlimited was recently awarded a $1 million North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant, which will be used to significantly expand the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in southwestern Indiana. The grant will be matched by more than $2 million in partner funds to acquire nearly 3,000 acres of wetlands and adjacent uplands.

2014 Guns of the Year Raffle

Ducks Unlimited Inc., Ducks Unlimited Canada support ecological separation of Great Lakes

MILWAUKEE, Wis. - Sept. 9, 2013 - Ducks Unlimited Inc. (DUI) and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) jointly released a statement this week on the threat to the Great Lakes presented by non-native carp. The conservation groups called on governmental and non-governmental organizations to move toward the ecological separation of the Great Lakes watershed as soon as possible, as part of a comprehensive strategy to protect the Great Lakes from Asian carp and other invasive species.

Ducks Unlimited applauds improvements in Great Lakes funding

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Aug. 2, 2013 - Ducks Unlimited appreciates the passage of an amendment to provide $210 million to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) program. Previously a subcommittee had reduced funding for the successful program to $60 million.

Great Lakes Initiative

Protecting the pristine waters of the Great Lakes and conserving critical habitat for many species of waterfowl that utilize this vast watershed throughout their life cycle.

Big Rivers Initiative

Restoring feeding and resting areas along the river that make up the Mississippi River floodplain and the conserving habitat critical to the grand passage of migratory waterfowl.

Ducks Unlimited Sweet 16 university chapters recognized for outstanding volunteer, fundraising efforts

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - March 27, 2013 - Each spring, Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 list of top-producing volunteer university chapters throughout the nation. This elite group is considered the best of the best when it comes to fundraising and overall chapter strength.

More Land Acquired for Wildlife in Indiana

Ducks Unlimited recently joined the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to acquire the 1,043-acre Columbia Mine property adjoining Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in southern Indiana.

DU's John Tomke reappointed as chairman of federal conservation, hunting council

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Aug. 17, 2012 - John Tomke, former Ducks Unlimited Inc. president and current president of Ducks Unlimited de Mexico, has been reappointed chairman of the Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council (WHHCC) by President Obama. Tomke was first named chairman in July 2010.

DU supports opening some CRP lands for drought-stricken ranchers

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Aug. 3, 2012 - Ducks Unlimited supports opening certain Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) lands to haying and grazing during the current drought affecting livestock feed supplies. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack opened nearly 4 million acres of CRP land this week for livestock producers dealing with shortages of hay and pastureland.

Evansville Chapter recognized nationally

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – March 15, 2012 – The President's Top 100 is one of the most highly sought- after titles of recognition Ducks Unlimited offers to chapters throughout the nation. This past fall, the Evansville Chapter made the Top 100 list as one of the organization's best fundraising chapters.

Governor signs gaming legislation

Waterfowl and other wildlife will be the ultimate beneficiaries of legislation signed by Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels last Friday.

Ducks Unlimited Sweet 16 university chapters recognized for outstanding volunteer, fundraising efforts in 2011

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - March 23, 2012 - Each spring, Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 list of top-producing volunteer university chapters throughout the nation.

Indiana Ducks Unlimited license plate available now

INDIANAPOLIS - March 1, 2012 - Ducks Unlimited leaders want Indiana residents to know that the new DU license plate is available for purchase at Bureau of Motor Vehicles locations across the state.

Get an Indiana Ducks Unlimited license plate today

Support DU in Indiana by getting an Indiana DU license plate.

Indiana: Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area

Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area has undergone significant restoration work over the past few years.

Kiwani Marsh Dedication—Indiana

Oct. 2011: Glorious weather in northwest Indiana was the backdrop for an October Indiana PRIDE dedication at the Kiwani Marsh.

Migration Alert: N. Indiana seeing migration increase

Nov. 4, 2011: Hunters who can find spots with wood ducks and green-winged teal will continue having the best success for now.

The Feather Society

INDU Newsletters

View past issues of Indiana DU state newsletters in PDF format.

Presidential Citations

More Indiana News

Indiana Chapters

Chapter Social Media/Networking

Indiana native named to DU Board of Directors

DU license plate approved in Indiana

Need 500 sales to start producing plates; Proceeds go towards Indiana waterfowl habitat

Purdue University Chapter Recognized Nationally

Purdue DU Chapter receives Presidential Gold Citation

President's Elite Chapters Rise to the Top

Each year a select group of Ducks Unlimited chapters rises to the top of the ranks: the President's Elite chapters, which raise $100,000 or more annually for DU's habitat conservation work. This year, 43 DU chapters achieved President's Elite status.

2011 Wetland Conservation Achievement Awards

KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 18, 2011 – Ducks Unlimited announced today the winners of the 2011 Wetland Conservation Achievement Awards at the 76th annual North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Kansas City, Mo.

Chapter Spotlight: Indy Sponsor Chapter

When the governor, two past presidents of DU and the current president of DU all plan to attend your sponsor event, you want to pull out all the stops.

Ducks Unlimited names new GLARO director

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Nov. 2, 2010 - Rebecca Humphries, director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment, has accepted the position of director of the Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office for Ducks Unlimited.

Ducks Unlimited Recognizes Indiana Governor, Celebrates Acquisition, Restoration

Ducks Unlimited presented Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels today with a Conservation Leadership Award recognizing the governor’s efforts to make Indiana a leader in public land conservation. The award presentation took place at Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area during a celebration attended by conservationists to acknowledge the acquisition and ongoing restoration of the more than 8,000-acre property.

Chapter Spotlight: Wa-Nee Chapter

There's new life among the Wa-Nee Chapter, and it shows!

Ducks Unlimited's Tomke named chairman of federal conservation, hunting council

MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 23, 2010 – John Tomke, former DU president and current president of Ducks Unlimited de Mexico, has been named chairman of the new Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council. Tomke was named to the council earlier today by U. S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. His position as chairman was confirmed by those federal departments this afternoon.

DU Patriots!

The guys and gals of Crown Point Ducks Unlimited brought the marsh to the streets for this 4th of July weekend.

Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels announces effort to conserve 43,000 acres

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - June 11, 2010 - Bottomland hardwood habitat and riverfront marshes have disappeared in Indiana at an incredible rate, but Ducks Unlimited and its partners are working with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to conserve crucial migration habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds in the state.

Governor announces second major land conservation project

Governor announces second major land conservation project SCOTTSBURG, Indiana (June 11, 2010) - Governor Mitch Daniels today announced a second major land conservation project in as many days - this one targeting more than 25,600 acres along the Muscatatuck River known as Muscatatuck Bottoms in Scott, Jackson and Washington counties.

Ducks Unlimited, partners awarded Great Lakes restoration grant

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – April 26, 2010 – Ducks Unlimited received one of the first Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) grants through the Sustain Our Great Lakes program this past week. DU and its partners will restore coastal streams and marshes in northern Michigan using the $783,823 grant.

NAWCA funds support conservation at Goose Pond

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – April 8, 2010 - Ducks Unlimited was recently awarded a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to restore approximately 200 acres in southwestern Indiana, known as “Field B” at the Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA). Project partners include Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), National Wild Turkey Federation, and Duke Energy. The NAWCA grant will allow partners to restore and enhance this degraded wetland for the benefit of breeding and migrating waterfowl, other wetland wildlife and the public.

Ducks Unlimited "Sweet 16" collegiate chapters recognized nationally

Purdue University Chapter plays a vital role in supporting conservation efforts West Lafayette, Ind. - March 25, 2010 - As the collegiate basketball world heads into the “Sweet 16,” Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 college chapters throughout the U.S. The Purdue Chapter made it into the elite group out of nearly 120 DU collegiate chapters.

$1 million NAWCA grant to fund Indiana conservation secured by Ducks Unlimited

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – March 24, 2010 – The North American Wetlands Conservation Council recently approved Ducks Unlimited and its conservation partners' proposal for a one-million dollar North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to protect and restore wetland habitat along the Wabash River Corridor in Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Sullivan, Greene, Knox, Daviess, Gibson and Pike Counties of Indiana. The majority of this project area has been selected for the creation of the Indiana Department of Natural Resource's (IDNR) new Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA).

New funding pushes Wabashiki project closer to completion.

The proposed 6,000-acre Wabashiki River Fish and Wildlife Area near Terre Haute moved a giant step closer to fruition with the March 10 announcement that the national Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has approved $1 million in federal funds toward the project. The funding for Indiana, part of The Prairie Lakes Wetland Initiative, is half of the grant money approval that Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced. The money awarded is aimed at protecting and restoring 7,107 acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat in Indiana and Iowa under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). Indiana’s $1 million share in the federal funds and an additional $2,353,417 in partner contributions will support the Indiana project.

Ducks Unlimited urges partnership in carp solution

Conservation group releases position on invasive Asian carp WASHINGTON - Feb. 28, 2010 - This week, Ducks Unlimited released its position on the threat to the Great Lakes presented by non-native carp. DU called on both governmental and non-governmental organizations to develop an immediate short-term plan, followed by a comprehensive long-term strategy to deal with Asian carp in the Great Lakes.

SportDOG Brand announces recipients of 2009 Conservation Fund grants

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Feb. 2, 2010 - SportDOG Brand has awarded $19,300 to four conservation groups as part of its annual SportDOG Conservation Fund grant program. Award recipients were chosen by the company's Conservation Fund Grant Review Committee.

NAWCA grant to fund Ducks Unlimited, partners moves one step closer

Funding likely for wetland protection and restoration within the Wabash River Corridor ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Jan. 8, 2010 – The North American Wetlands Conservation Council recently recommended Ducks Unlimited be awarded a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant to protect and restore wetland habitat along the Wabash River Corridor in Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Sullivan, Greene, Knox, Daviess, Gibson, and Pike Counties of Indiana. A portion of this project area has also been selected for the creation of the Indiana Department of Natural Resource’s (IDNR) new Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA.) This FWA will be situated along a 17-mile stretch of the Wabash River, ultimately encompassing thousands of acres of bottomland forest and floodplain wetlands.

Groups join forces to protect local habitat

Land purchase one piece in larger conservation puzzle TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – December 10, 2009 – The conservation group Ducks Unlimited has partnered with state government and other organizations to acquire and permanently protect wetlands along the Wabash River south of Terre Haute, Indiana. This acquisition has the potential to join several others in the area to protect extensive, continuous waterfowl and wildlife habitat.

President signs legislation in support of Great Lakes

ANN ARBOR, Michigan November 2, 2009 Historic legislation aimed at the restoring the Great Lakes was signed by President Obama Friday after the House and Senate approved the measure last week. According to Ducks Unlimited, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative will provide $475 million for a comprehensive program to restore and protect the Great Lakes. Ducks Unlimited stands ready to turn this financial commitment into cleaner water and better habitat for waterfowl, wildlife and citizens of the Great Lakes and beyond.

Conservationists support investment in Great Lakes

Ann Arbor, Mich. – May 20, 2009 – Ducks, geese and swans in the Great Lakes could realize an increase in the size and quality of their habitat if President Obama’s proposed budget for Great Lakes Restoration Initiative comes to fruition. The budget for 2010 contains an additional $475 million for Great Lakes restoration and economic recovery.

INDIANA RECOGNIZED AS TOP PERFOMER

Indiana earns 7th place among all states at Ducks Unlimited National Convention

Greenwings Migrate to Place Trail Marsh

Purdue DU joins Basketball Teams in the annual Sweet Sixteen

Habitat Enhancement Project Complete at Goose Pond FWA

Public and Private Entities Join Together for Conservation

Indiana wetlands to benefit from Duke Energy Foundation and DU partnership

Focus will be on public land habitat enhancement and conservation policy issues in the state

Duke Energy Foundation supports Indiana conservation efforts

Duke Energy Foundation supports Indiana conservation efforts Ducks Unlimited says funding for wetlands part of ongoing partnership Ducks Unlimited recently received a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation.

DU Makes Changes in Eastern Great Lakes Staff

New Director of Fundraising for Indiana, Michigan and Ohio Memphis, Tenn. – There has been a change in Ducks Unlimited staff for the eastern Great Lakes states of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.

Ducks Unlimited Addresses Indiana Flooding

Long-term solutions best answer to extreme weather events MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 3, 2008 - In the weeks that follow a flooding event, authorities are providing immediate assistance to those suffering from the disaster, but they are also looking for answers to help provide residents with better protection in the future.

INDIANA DUCKS UNLIMITED HOSTS ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION

Indianapolis, Ind., April 10, 2008 – Indiana Ducks Unlimited’s state convention will take place on April 18 and 19. Volunteers, staff and conservation partners will gather at the Holiday Inn Pyramids in Indianapolis to celebrate “Full Halls - Full Skies” and the state’s 2007 accomplishments. More than 20,000 acres of wetlands and associated habitats have been conserved in Indiana to date, and the state boasts 10,500 members. Events will include educational seminars, outdoor vendors, raffles and auctions.

New online map allows users firsthand, interactive experience of black duck migration

If you’re interested in taking bird watching to the next level, Ducks Unlimited has the perfect tool for you. This month, Ducks Unlimited’s Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office unveiled an updated version of its Black Duck Research Initiative Web site, including an all-new interactive mapping tool allowing users to “Follow the Ducks” using satellite and VHF radio tracking technology.

DU meets with Congressional leadership and Administration officials to discuss conservation

WASHINGTON – February 13, 2008 – Ducks Unlimited Executive Vice President Don Young was joined by other wildlife conservation organizations today to deliver a strong message on behalf of sportsmen and habitat: protect and expand habitat conservation and opportunities for sportsmen.

Ducks Unlimited’s Black Duck Research Initiative brought to life on Web

New online map allows users firsthand, interactive experience of black duck migration ANN ARBOR, Mich., Feb. 8, 2008 – If you’re interested in taking bird watching to the next level, Ducks Unlimited has the perfect tool for you.

Lawmaker contacted by DU State Chair over Huntinng Rights.

President’s Budget proposal mixed on waterfowl programs

FY’09 request maintains some programs, cuts others--including Bush priorities WASHINGTON, February 4, 2008 – Conservation programs that benefit waterfowl receive mixed support in the 2009 budget proposal, released today by the Bush administration.

Ducks Unlimited commemorates millionth acre of Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program

Joins Secretary of Agriculture in marking the conservation milestone WASHINGTON – January 17, 2008 – Ducks Unlimited and the US Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency celebrated the enrollment of the one millionth acre into the popular Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) today.

DU says CRP losses astounding

National trend for habitat loss concerning BISMARCK, ND, January 4, 2008 – The conservation organization Ducks Unlimited says it’s as if someone plowed up a three-mile swath of wildlife habitat across North Dakota, from its southern border to Canada.

Duke Energy completes $1M commitment to wetland restoration

Ducks Unlimited honors Duke partnership with diamond legacy award CINCINNATI, Ohio, Nov. 6, 2007 – Ducks Unlimited conservation staff met with representatives from Duke Energy in on Tuesday morning in Cincinnati to honor the completion of Duke’s $1 million commitment to wetlands restoration in Indiana. Duke received DU’s Diamond Legacy award and a bronze sculpture for their contribution.

Ducks Unlimited biologist Jason Hill wins national award.

Ann Arbor: Jason Hill, a Ducks Unlimited regional biologist, earned the 2006 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wetlands Group Assisted Individual Conservation Award for his outstanding work on behalf of Indiana wetlands. The National Wetlands Conservation Award program began in 1990 to honor Fish and Wildlife Service private sector partners for their efforts to restore and improve wetlands across the nation.

Funding needed now or popular wetlands program dies

Goose Pond example of Wetlands Reserve Program success ELKHART, Ind., August 30, 2007 – It’s a wetlands oasis that draws waterfowl, other wildlife and people from miles around. For decades, it frustrated Greene County, Indiana farmers who struggled to get a crop from its swampy bottoms. Now, Goose Pond is one of the nation’s largest Wetlands Reserve Program easements. Its nearly 7,200 acres make it a model of success for the popular farm bill conservation program.

Federal Duck Stamp unveiled in unprecedented event

Clarksville, Indiana, July 11, 2007 - Bass Pro Shops, the Fish and Wildlife Service and Ducks Unlimited recently unveiled this year’s Federal Duck Stamp in a unique nationwide event. The unveiling was celebrated at Bass Pro Shops’ Springfield, Mo., flagship store, and at all 42 Bass Pro Shops stores across the country, including the Clarksville and Portage, Indiana locations. Indiana State Chairman, Frank Wolka, Jr, of Vallonia, spoke at the Clarksville location, where he bought the first Federal and Junior Duck Stamps issued this year in Indiana.

House Ag. Chair Moves to Fund Wetlands and Waterfowl Conservation - IN

WASHINGTON, July 2, 2007 – U. S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson’s (MN) wants to make conservation a top priority in this year’s farm bill reauthorization. The chairman recently unveiled a new legislative approach that would save the Wetlands Reserve Program and protect native prairie.

Ducks Unlimited names Knox County farmer 2007 Indiana Volunteer Conservationist of the Year

VINCENNES, Ind. – May 28, 2007 – Ducks Unlimited (DU) volunteer Ray McCormick was honored as Indiana Volunteer Conservationist of the Year on April 21, during DU’s annual state convention in Indianapolis. Each year the award is presented by the DU Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office to recognize and show appreciation for exceptional conservation and fundraising efforts on the part of a volunteer who has helped to advance DU’s mission in Indiana.

Capitol visit successful for Indiana farmer

VINCENNES, Ind. – June 12, 2007 – Ray McCormick, a Vincennes, Ind., landowner, joined three other landowners from Ohio, Tennessee and Mississippi in Washington, D.C., on May 22-24, as part of the Ducks Unlimited-sponsored farmer fly-in program. Through this program, farmers fly to D.C. to educate and inform legislators of the importance of the 2007 Farm Bill Conservation Provisions, and specifically funding for the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) as part of the Farm Bill conservation title.

Indiana Ducks Unlimited Wins National Award

MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 6, 2007 – Ducks Unlimited named Indiana a “Top 10” state for its efforts to promote conservation among Indiana’s youth. At its annual convention in Anchorage, Alaska, May 25-26, Indiana received the prestigious “2006 Project Webfoot/Greenwing National Award,” named for Ducks Unlimited’s two national youth programs.

Hayden Elementary Students Participate in Jr. Duck Stamp Contest

On April 9, 2007 a group of Hayden Elementary Students will be judged on their submmissions of artwork and will visit the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge to learn about wetlands and everything to do with them.

DNR Public Hearing on One Buck Rule Proposal

DNR Public Hearing on One Buck Rule Proposal ---------------------------------------------- The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has scheduled a public hearing to receive comments on a proposal to extend the one buck-rule for an additional five years. The hearing will be Tuesday, March 27, at 1:30 p.m. (Local Time) at the Indiana Government Center South, Conference Center Room 1, in Indianapolis. The Indiana Government Center South is located at 402 W. Washington St. in downtown Indianapolis....

Restoring Habitat in the Heartland

NOBLE COUNTY, Ind., February 12, 2007 - For nearly a century, farmers and the government have fought to keep water off of one low-lying, 20-acre wetland basin in northeastern Indiana. That is, until Gary Franklin, a farmer from Noble County decided to restore his land back to what it used to be – a thriving wetland near the Elkhart River.

Wetlands Aren’t Just for the Ducks: Endangered Whooping Cranes Depend Upon Wetland Habitats - IN

One of North America’s best-known endangered species, the Whooping Crane, saw its numbers dwindle to just 15 birds in the early 1940s. Today the population has grown to nearly 500 birds but still faces threats from oil and chemical spills, power lines, disease, and loss of wetland habitat.

Ducks Unlimited Deems Tim Hayes of Duke Energy, Indiana Conservation Partner of the Year

On Tuesday, August 8th, during Duke Energy’s dedication ceremony for the Cane Ridge Wildlife Area near Princeton, Ducks Unlimited (DU) honored Tim Hayes of Duke Energy as Indiana Conservation Partner of the Year. Each year the award is presented by the Ducks Unlimited Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office to recognize and show appreciation for exceptional conservation partnerships with DU. Tim has gone above and beyond the call of duty as a partner to DU, and through his hard work and devotion to conservation, has helped to further DU’s mission of wetland conservation throughout the state.

Endangered Species Respond Well to Unique Restoration Project

A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) – Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area revealed an overwhelming response by the federally endangered Interior Least Tern to the recently completed Interior Least Tern Unit Project. A total of 65 adult terns tending to 23 nests containing 64 eggs were observed in mid-June. Significant measures to reduce predation has successfully aided in the establishment of this large Tern nesting colony.

DU & CropLife America Partnership Results in Herbicide to Establish Native Prairie Habitat

CropLife America member company, recently donated more than $12,000 of Roundup® Pro herbicide to Ducks Unlimited (DU) for establishing native warm season grasses on private lands in northeast Indiana.

Endangered Species Respond Well to Restoration Project at Cane Ridge WMA

Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area Project – Interior Least Tern Unit Complete

In continuing their work to conserve, preserve and restore wetlands, Ducks Unlimited’s (DU) Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office has identified the Ohio/Mississippi River confluence as a high priority focus area in which to continue their work.

Indiana Volunteer Frank Wolka Jr. Deemed Conservationist of the Year!

During Ducks Unlimited’s (DU) annual state convention in Columbus, IN, Ducks Unlimited volunteer, Frank Wolka Jr. was honored as Indiana Conservationist of the Year!

Upper Mississippi River

An overview of Ducks Unlimited's habitat conservation work in the Upper Mississippi River priority area

U.S. Great Lakes System

An overview of Ducks Unlimited's U.S. Great Lakes System priority area.

Purdue Collegiate Chapter

In the midst of March Madness the Purdue Collegiate Chapter of Ducks Unlimited has made the Sweet 16 both on and off the court. The lone Hoosier state chapter has made great strides in four short years.

Where Indiana's Ducks Come From

The Prairie Pothole Region is critical to Indiana waterfowl hunters. A significant portion of the ducks that travel through our state each year originate in this important breeding area.

Dillin Moist Soil Wetlands

Bulldozers have moved off site and the dirt has settled at the Dillin wetland restoration project site! Located near Pikeville, Indiana, the restoration project is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Indiana Four Rivers Project, North American Wetlands Conservation Council and Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to restore 67 acres of wetlands at the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge.

Weyerbacher Moist Soil Wetland (Posey County)

Located in southwest Indiana in the floodplain of the Ohio River, the Weyerbacher wetland restoration has become the latest addition to the Hovey Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. DU designed and delivered this 35-acre moist soil managed wetland.

DU and Cinergy Corp Partnership

DU and Cinergy Corp. have had a long-standing agreement to reforest seasonally flooded bottomlands in southern Indiana. This agreement was recently modified to shift the focus to acquisition of cleared bottomlands, planting trees on those acquired lands, and then selling them on to the U.S. Fish and wildlife Service to become part of the Patoka River NWR.

Place Trail Marsh

Bulldozers have moved off site and the dirt has settled at the Place Trail Marsh wetland restoration project site! Located near Walkerton, Indiana, the restoration project is a collaborative effort between the St. Joseph County Parks Department, Indiana Grand Kankakee Marsh Restoration Project, North American Wetlands Conservation Council and Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to restore 170 acres of wetlands at the Place Trail Marsh County Park.

Northeast Indiana Pothole Initiative

Now in our sixth program year, DU, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Indiana DNR and Pheasants Forever continue to work collaboratively to restore wetlands and associated grasslands on private lands in an eight county region of northeastern Indiana, including Allen, Dekalb, Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben and Whitley counties.

Beaver Dam

DU and a host of conservation partners, including Lake County Parks, Indiana DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Southern Lake Michigan Coastal Wetlands Project, continue work to restore wetland and upland habitat on the 240-acre Deep River Headwaters County Park and adjacent 18-acre Beaver Dam Wetland Conservation Area. DU has completed the design and is awaiting permit approval to deliver the restoration of 3 wetlands on the property which include a 16-acre emergent wetland, an 18-acre wooded wetland and a second emergent marsh that could top 190-acres!

Goose Pond and Beehunter Marsh

On November 8 th , a host of conservation partners joined together at the Triple H Gun Club to celebrate the Indiana Department of Natural Resource’s (IDNR) purchase of 8,000 acres commonly known as Goose Pond. On hand to convey the importance wetland conservation and public benefits stemming from this joint effort was Gov. Mitch Daniels, John Tomke (Ducks Unlimited), Kyle Hupfer, (IDNR), Robyn Thorson (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service) and Mary McConnell (The Nature Conservancy).

Cane Ridge Wildlife Area

Construction of the Interior Least Tern Unit of the Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area is now complete. This unique project is a cooperative effort between several conservation partners including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Cinergy Corp. and Ducks Unlimited.

Indiana Conservation Projects

Ducks Unlimited habitat conservation projects in Indiana. These projects benefit waterfowl, other wildlife and people. View sample projects, project map and more.

Fisher Lumber Company Acquisition (Warrick and Spencer Counties)

DU, along with a host of conservation partners, including the Indiana DNR, Wabash Heritage Land Trust, Four Rivers RC&D, Southwest Indiana Four Rivers Project and others have successfully acquired this 235-acre bottomland property. The Fisher tract is bisected by Little Pigeon Creek and provides a diversity of high-quality bottomland wetland habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife.

Potucek (Newton County)

The Potucek project is part of the LaSalle State Fish and Wildlife Area in northwest Indiana and was completed as a cooperative effort between the Indiana DNR, Indiana Grand Kankakee Marsh Restoration Project and Ducks Unlimited. Twelve generous and dedicated conservationists secured funds for this project through life sponsorships to Ducks Unlimited.

Miller Acquisition (Pike County)

DU recently contributed funds toward acquisition of this 80-acre bottomland parcel for Patoka River NWR. This floodplain property contains portions of two ancient Patoka River oxbows and large stands of hardwood timber and is bordered by state land on two sides.

Roland Riparian Restoration Dedicated

On November 2, the Bedford DU committee, U.S. Forest Service, Indiana Department of Natural Resources and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service held a dedication ceremony to celebrate the Roland Wetland Complex. This outstanding partnership restored 165 acres of floodplain wetlands adjacent to the Lost River that are now permanently protected as part of the Hoosier National Forest.

Russell Acquisition (Allen County)

DU recently assisted the Little River Wetlands Project in acquiring the 37-acre Russell Tract. This drained wetland property lies adjacent to the 60-acre Buell Tract that DU helped acquire in 2001. These properties, located in the floodplain of the Little Wabash River, combine to make up the Aboite Wetlands (aka Arrowhead Marsh) and have been enrolled in WRP under a permanent conservation easement.

No-till Drill Acquisition

DU, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Eel River Chapter of Pheasants Forever recently partnered to acquire a Great Plains no-till prairie drill for use in northeast Indiana. This drill will be used to plant native warm season grasses on projects under the Northeast Indiana Pothole Initiative.

Deep River Headwaters (Lake County)

DU and a host of conservation partners, including Lake County Parks, Indiana DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Southern Lake Michigan Coastal Wetlands Project, are working to restore wetland and upland habitat on the 240-acre Deep River Headwaters County Park and adjacent 18-acre Beaver Dam Wetland Conservation Area. DU is designing and will deliver the restoration of 3 wetlands on the property which include a 16-acre emergent wetland, an 18-acre wooded wetland and a second emergent marsh that could top 190-acres!

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