Alaska Born to Fly Initiative

Why Alaska Matters

Alaska is the cornerstone of the Pacific Flyway and the wetland capital of North America, with more wetlands than all of the lower 48 states combined. Alaska has a rich ecosystems that provides a critical breeding habitat for millions of waterfowl and migratory birds, anchoring one of the world’s most important migration corridors. 

Alaska’s Vital Impact:

  • Produces one-third of all ducks in the Pacific Flyway region, even more for certain species such as pintail.
  • Ducks banded in Alaska have been recovered in at least 45 states, showing how far this breeding habitat reaches.
  • Serves as the largest breeding area in the Pacific Flyway, connecting DU's conservation work from the Arctic to the lower 48 states and Mexico.

THE CHALLENGE

Despite this importance, waterfowl numbers in Alaska are on the decline. After steadily rising from the late 1970s through the early 2000s, breeding duck populations have since dropped by nearly half. The reasons for this decline remain unclear, though possible factors include:

  • Changing Wetland Hydrology
  • Habitat Loss

Our Solution

Ducks Unlimited Alaska Born To Fly Initiative is a bold effort to ensure that Alaska remains a priority waterfowl breeding habitat within the Pacific Flyway. Doing so will require a better understanding of Alaska’s wetlands and what changes to those habitats might mean for waterfowl, wildlife, Native communities, and development in remote areas. DU will use advanced science and technology to map changes, inform decisions, and drive conservation in Alaska where it matters most.

How We'll Do It

Build a Strong Waterfowl Research Program

We're investing in science to study why some duck and goose populations are declining. Targeted research on nest predation and wetland changes will help guide future conservation of key species and Alaska wetlands.

Improve Wetland Resiliency Through Cutting-Edge Monitoring

Using new remote sensing technology, DU will track how Alaska’s wetlands have changed over the past 40 years, and how they continue to evolve. This data will be shared with communities, corporations, and agencies to guide smart, conservation-minded decisions and support long-term Alaska wetland habitat management.

Support Smart Land Use and Policy

DU will work with local partners to promote land use practices and policies that benefit people, wildlife, and Alaska’s vast wetlands. Our science will help inform development decisions and conservation priorities across the state and the Pacific Flyway region.

Engage and Empower DU Volunteers

DU volunteers are vital to our mission, driving habitat restoration, fundraising, and advocacy in Alaska. Deeply connected to the land, they’re often first to notice change. We're strengthening their efforts and investing in their impact.

Connect Conservation to Community

Everything we do in Alaska is rooted in collaboration. From Native communities to public agencies, DU is committed to working with those who live, work, and rely on these lands to ensure a future that benefits both people and wildlife. This collaboration is essential for sustainable Alaska wetland conservation.

Alaska's Wetlands Provide Critical Ecosystem Services to Local Communities

Alaska holds 63% of U.S. wetlands, vital for clean water, carbon storage, climate resilience, and biodiversity. They support subsistence, recreation, and key waterfowl habitat, benefiting Alaska and the entire Pacific Flyway.

DU's Impact on Alaska

  • Partnering with the U.S. Forest Service to improve nesting success of Dusky Canada Geese on the Copper River Delta, a key Alaska waterfowl breeding habitat.
  • Using satellite imagery to track wetland changes in Alaska and identify conservation opportunities.
  • Collaborating with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to band waterfowl on the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta National Wildlife Refuge, a critical region for Pacific Flyway waterfowl.
  • Working with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to study shifts in duck distribution across Alaska wetlands.
  • Building relationships with corporate and foundation partners to support Alaska wetland conservation efforts.

How You Can Help

Attending Events

Support local DU fundraisers and habitat tours

Volunteering

Assist with Alaska wetland restoration projects or educational outreach

Donating

Provide financial support to directly fund wetland conservation and restoration



We Use Cookies

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