Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. is a leading American nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of wetlands and associated upland habitats for waterfowl, other wildlife, and people. The organization was founded in 1937 during the Dust Bowl, when waterfowl populations had plummeted to unprecedented lows. Initially formed by a small group of sportsmen, its mission is to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands across North America.

History

Ducks Unlimited was incorporated on January 29, 1937, by conservation philanthropists including Joseph Knapp, Robert Winthrop, and E. H. Low. The organization's founders recognized the critical role of wetlands in sustaining waterfowl populations and understood the need for action beyond national borders. Ducks Unlimited Canada was established shortly after in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on March 10, 1937, marking the organization's early international collaboration.

Mission and Focus

Ducks Unlimited focuses primarily on waterfowl habitat conservation, recognizing the broader benefits such habitats provide to other wildlife and human communities. Its vision is to create and maintain wetlands sufficient to support healthy waterfowl populations indefinitely. This vision is pursued through partnerships with governments, corporations, NGOs, landowners, and private citizens.

Activities and Achievements

Ducks Unlimited has conserved over 15 million acres of waterfowl habitat in North America. The organization supports its conservation efforts through a variety of fundraising activities, including member and sponsor banquets, shooting and fishing tournaments, and golf outings. More than 4,000 grassroots fundraising events are held annually, contributing significantly to the organization's revenue.

Ducks Unlimited also engages in advocating for policies that protect wetlands and the environment. In addition, it produces a television show, Ducks Unlimited TV, which highlights conservation efforts and waterfowl hunting practices across the United States.

Governance and Membership

As of the last public update, Ducks Unlimited has approximately 700,000 members and over 40,000 volunteers. The majority of its members and financial contributors are hunters, and the organization generates revenue from member dues, sponsorships, major gifts, and sales of advertising space in DU Magazine. Ducks Unlimited has a strong commitment to science-based decision-making and collaboration in its conservation efforts.

Financials

Ducks Unlimited generates significant revenue each year, with over $201 million reported in 2019. The organization allocates at least 80% of its revenue directly toward habitat conservation efforts.

Impact and Legacy

Over 85 years, Ducks Unlimited has become the world's largest and most effective private waterfowl and wetlands conservation organization. Its conservation model emphasizes community engagement, scientific rigor, and collaboration, making it a benchmark for environmental stewardship. Through its efforts, Ducks Unlimited aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of North America's waterfowl populations and the ecosystems they inhabit.