Ducks Unlimited & Hunting

Frequently asked questions about Hunting

• What is Ducks Unlimited’s position on hunting?

  Ducks Unlimited supports the sustainable use and harvest of renewable resources based on sound science. We support waterfowl hunting, when conducted in an ethical and sustainable manner, as a legitimate and acceptable use of a renewable resource. 

• How does the average public land hunter benefit from Ducks Unlimited conservation?

  Ducks Unlimited protect and enhances thousands of acres of public land each year, providing more quality opportunities for hunters of numerous species. Habitat conservation efforts benefit waterfowlers, turkey hunters, deer hunters and water sources for anglers. 

• Does Ducks Unlimited create hunting regulations for game and fish?

  Ducks Unlimited does not set hunting regulations or determine season dates. Under Federal law established by international treaties with Canada, Mexico, and other countries sharing North America's migratory birds, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is ultimately responsible for regulating migratory bird hunting in the United States. 

• How does Ducks Unlimited determine where to do waterfowl conservation projects?

  Ducks Unlimited takes a continental, landscape approach to wetland conservation. Since 1937, DU and sister organizations Ducks Unlimited Canada and Ducks Unlimited Mexico have conserved more than 15.5 million acres of habitat across North America. While DU works in all 50 states, we focus on landscapes most beneficial to waterfowl. Ducks Unlimited is a science-driven organization, using data on wetlands, water and waterfowl to guide our work. 

• How do I find out where Ducks Unlimited is doing conservation work in my state?

  To find out where Ducks Unlimited is working to conserve wetlands and other associated habitats in your state, go to www.ducks.org and click on “VIEW STATE PAGE" at the top. Click your state on the map and scroll down to “Habitat Projects” to learn more about projects going on in your state. Check out the NEWS and CONSERVATION PROJECTS section for updates.

• Can people hunt on Ducks Unlimited’s conservation projects?

  Hunting opportunities on DU projects in the U.S. are determined by the landowner or manager. Many projects are located on state or federal lands that are open to public hunting, but some are designated as waterfowl sanctuaries by public agencies and thus are closed to hunting. Permission to hunt on privately owned project sites must be obtained from the respective landowner. Information about hunting opportunities on properties owned by Ducks Unlimited Canada may be obtained from their website (www.ducks.ca).

• As a hunter, how can I help Ducks Unlimited’s conservation efforts?

  Become a Ducks Unlimited member and consider volunteering with a local chapter. Membership dues and donations provide the critical dollars we use as matching funds in state and federal grant programs. Our membership strength also positions Ducks Unlimited as a leader in the policy arena, as we advocate for state and federal legislation that provides large-scale benefits to waterfowl, wetlands, and hunters. Learn more about our membership options at the GET INVOLVED link at the top of the page.