Celebrating Wetlands. Advancing Conservation.
Each May, American Wetlands Month highlights the importance of wetlands to wildlife, clean water, and communities. At Ducks Unlimited, wetlands are at the core of everything we do. Since 1937, we've led large-scale conservation efforts to support waterfowl habitat, improve water quality, reduce flood risks, and protect these vital ecosystems for future generations.
American Wetlands Month was established in 1991 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a coalition of conservation partners to raise public awareness of wetlands and their value.
The month is recognized nationally each May and serves as a time to spotlight the ecological, economic, and recreational benefits wetlands provide. It also draws attention to the ongoing threats wetlands face from development, pollution, and land use changes.
Wetlands are some of the most productive and valuable ecosystems on the planet. They serve vital functions that benefit both wildlife and people:
Wetlands naturally filter pollutants, absorb nutrients, and recharge aquifers. They help improve water quality downstream and reduce the load on built infrastructure.
Did you know?
One acre of wetlands can filter up to 7.3 million gallons of water annually.
By holding and slowly releasing water, wetlands can help reduce the risk of downstream flooding. They help manage stormwater and protect homes and communities from extreme weather events.
Did you know?
One acre of wetlands can store as much as 1.5 million gallons of floodwater.
More than 900 animal species depend on wetlands at some point during their lifespan, including ducks, geese, amphibians, mammals, and fish. Wetlands are essential to sustaining healthy populations of migratory birds.
Did you know?
Over half of North America’s bird species nest or feed in wetlands.
As part of American Wetlands Month, Ducks Unlimited has launched Clicks for Conservation — a quick, zero-cost way for you to make a difference. Just one verified click unlocks a donation toward wetland conservation, thanks to our partner YETI. The only question is — will you take 10 seconds for wetlands?
The Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act is passed, funding wetland acquisition for waterfowl conservation.
Amid the Great Depression, hunters and conservationists were looking for ways to support struggling waterfowl populations, specifically in the Canadian prairies. Their foresight led to the establishment of Ducks Unlimited, Inc.
After working exclusively on habitat projects in Canada, Ducks Unlimited began working to conserve waterfowl habitat on U.S. soil.
The Emergency Wetlands Resources Act supports national wetlands mapping and coordinated conservation strategies.
American Wetlands Month is established by the EPA and partners.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports a net loss of 670,000 acres of wetlands, with vegetated wetlands most impacted.
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.continues to lead science-based conservation and habitat work across North America’s most important wetlands with over 19 million acres conserved.
Ducks Unlimited was founded in 1937 in response to disappearing waterfowl populations and the loss of wetlands that support them. Today, DU remains the world’s largest wetlands conservation organization.
Our work is rooted in science, guided by data, and driven by partnerships with private landowners, farmers, corporations, and government agencies.
Our conservation efforts focus on:
The impact is measurable: millions of acres of conserved habitat, cleaner water, stronger ecosystems, and healthier wildlife populations.
Whether it’s May or any time of year, there are multiple ways to take action:
Visit a Wetland Near You
Explore public lands or DU-supported conservation sites in your area. Observing wetlands firsthand is one of the best ways to understand their value.
Support Campaigns Like Clicks for Conservation
During American Wetlands Month, DU may run national initiatives that give individuals a simple way to contribute to conservation. One example: Clicks for Conservation, where each click results in funding toward wetlands work.
Share the Message
Use your platform—whether in a classroom, on social media, or around the campfire—to share facts about wetlands and why they matter.
Become a DU Member or Donor
When you support Ducks Unlimited, you directly fund habitat conservation that benefits wildlife, water, and future generations.
It is recognized nationally each May.
To raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and promote their conservation through education, engagement, and public outreach.
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil or is present near the surface for part of the year. Examples include marshes, swamps, bogs, and prairie potholes.
Urban development, agriculture, drainage, pollution, and climate shifts all contribute to wetland loss. Between 2009 and 2019, over 670,000 acres were lost in the U.S.
Through habitat restoration, permanent conservation agreements, public-private partnerships, and science-based land and water management.
There are 21 species of diving ducks commonly found in North America.
Share this photo
Ducks Unlimited uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience, optimize site functionality, analyze traffic, and deliver personalized advertising through third parties. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies. View Privacy Policy
