Ducks Unlimited and Wildrose Kennels share profound connections rooted in a dedication to wildlife conservation and sporting traditions. For more than eight decades, DU has been conserving natural habitats for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Wildrose Kennels, renowned for producing fine British Labrador retrievers, complements this mission by fostering a deep respect for ethical hunting practices and environmental stewardship.
The two organizations enjoy a collaboration that extends beyond their individual goals. Through their partnership, they promote responsible land use, sustainable hunting, and a mission to maintain ecosystems that benefit waterfowl and the sporting-dog community. This relationship is an example of how conservation and tradition coexist and create a legacy to ensure that future generations can enjoy outdoor experiences and natural wonders.
The collaboration started in 2000, when DU approached Wildrose owner Mike Stewart to help the organization acquire an official DU dog. “At the time, I was dedicated full-time to the Wildrose business while my wife, Cathy, was completing her career at the University of Mississippi. Our gundog training program had developed into a viable pursuit focused on producing a versatile sporting retriever,” Mike said. “DU was looking for a gentleman’s hunting retriever that could also be a family companion. Eric Keszler, DU’s director of communications, called and asked if I was interested in helping DU with a mascot dog. Knowing that the organization’s conservation mission matched that of mine and Cathy’s, we saw this as a great opportunity.”
In the fall of 2000, a Wildrose black Lab named Drake became the first official DU dog. In 2001, Mike and Drake began conducting workshops and demonstrations at DU’s Great Outdoor Festivals in Memphis, Tennessee, and Oshkosh, Wisconsin, as well as at other events. They also began filming a series of retriever training segments that appeared in episodes of DU’s TV show. “The partnership between Wildrose and DU has been such a natural fit,” Mike said. “Retrievers are some of the greatest agents of conservation. When they go out to the water or fields and bring back the harvest, they collect birds that might otherwise be lost.”
“Drake and his role with DU really helped propel Wildrose to what we are today,” Cathy said. Drake was a skilled retriever and a symbol of conservation efforts and sporting traditions. He became a beloved figure among DU supporters and a testament to the shared values of the two organizations.
Drake’s role elevated Wildrose Kennels to unparalleled prominence. Wildrose dogs are celebrated for their calm temperament and instinctive game-finding prowess, and Mike developed a unique program that came to be known as the Wildrose Way—a transformative training philosophy that blends exceptional field performance with loyal companionship. Drake’s legacy continued through his successor, Deke.
“First Drake and then Deke represented the legacy of our two organizations,” Mike said. “The Wildrose Way shaped them into highly respected dogs. DU’s proven conservation efforts ensure wild places remain protected for future generations, earning respect from the conservation community and those who benefit from their work.”
Mike and Cathy are deeply committed to leaving a legacy through Wildrose and conservation. Mike oversees staff training at four Wildrose locations across the country. As proud Feather Society supporters, they also help safeguard Ducks Unlimited’s conservation legacy for future generations. “The partnership between Wildrose and DU has been such a natural fit,” Mike said. “DU isn’t just about duck hunting; it’s about habitat conservation from water quality to wildlife.”
As Wildrose Kennels and Ducks Unlimited continue their meaningful partnership, their shared mission safeguards the beauty of nature for generations to come, offering the joy of exploring the great outdoors alongside faithful canine companions. Mike and Cathy Stewart’s heartfelt vision, tireless dedication, and unwavering commitment to conservation have created a lasting legacy—an inspiring reminder that personal passions and professional achievements can come together to nurture both the natural world and the bonds we share with it.
