Ducks Unlimited, Inc. - Sauvie's Island Chapter

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. is an American nonprofit organization, with chapters like the Sauvie's Island Chapter, dedicated to the conservation of wetlands and associated habitats for waterfowl. The organization's headquarters is located in Memphis, Tennessee, and it operates across North America.

History

Ducks Unlimited was founded in 1937 during the Dust Bowl, a period marked by severe drought and declining North American waterfowl populations. It began as a group of sportsmen aiming to protect and restore wetlands, primarily in the Canadian prairies. The organization quickly expanded its efforts into the United States, creating sister organizations like Ducks Unlimited Canada and Ducks Unlimited de Mexico.

Mission and Conservation Efforts

Ducks Unlimited's primary mission is habitat conservation. It conserves, restores, and manages wetlands and associated habitats crucial for North America's waterfowl, benefiting other wildlife and people. The organization's vision is to ensure sufficient wetlands to sustain waterfowl populations indefinitely.

Strategies and Partnerships

Ducks Unlimited works through diverse partnerships with private individuals, landowners, agencies, scientific communities, and other entities. It leverages public and private funds to address the erosion of waterfowl habitats across North America. Key areas of focus include the Prairie Pothole Region, the Mississippi Alluvial Valley, and coastal regions like the Gulf Coastal Prairie.

Impact and Funding

Over the years, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 15 million acres of waterfowl habitat in North America. The organization generates significant revenue from membership, sponsorships, and events, with at least 80% dedicated to habitat conservation efforts. Its financial contributors and members are predominantly hunters, reflecting the organization's strong ties to waterfowling heritage.

Chapters and Community Engagement

Chapters like Sauvie's Island Chapter play a vital role in local conservation efforts and community engagement. These chapters often host fundraising events and collaborate with local stakeholders to support wetland conservation initiatives aligned with Ducks Unlimited's broader mission.

Values and Principles

Ducks Unlimited's core values emphasize waterfowl and wetlands conservation, ethics, science-based decisions, collaboration, and wise investments. These principles guide its work and partnerships, ensuring the organization remains focused on effective conservation practices.

Global Presence

Beyond North America, Ducks Unlimited has expanded its reach through partnerships and chapters in regions like Latin America, New Zealand, and Australia. However, its main focus remains on North American waterfowl conservation.