Memphis nonprofit achieves 1M acres of wetlands conservation throughout North America in FY24

What’s happening: A Memphis-based nonprofit with a continental scope announced a rather significant milestone for the 87-year-old organization. The conservation group Ducks Unlimited recently announced that their work in fiscal year 2024 has resulted in the conservation of one million acres of wetlands throughout North America, the first time the organization has achieved such a number in its history.

Who they are: Headquartered in Memphis since 1992, Ducks Unlimited (DU) actually has its roots in the American and Canadian prairielands, where the Dust Bowl droughts of the 1930s decimated wetlands, and waterfowl populations. The conservation organization officially launched in 1937, and was quickly followed by the launch of Ducks Unlimited Canada one year later; Ducks Unlimited de México launched in Mexico in 1970.

Why it’s important: "Wetlands provide many services to our communities, including flood storage, groundwater recharge, carbon sequestration, enhanced fish habitat and more," says DU Chief Conservation Officer Dr. Karen Waldrop. "But we can't do this alone. The unprecedented success during FY24 is because DU's industry-leading partnerships with state and federal agencies, private corporations, farmers and individual donors." 

More to come: In August 2023, Ducks Unlimited, Inc., and Wetlands America Trust partnered with Ducks Unlimited Canada and Ducks Unlimited de México to launch Conservation For A Continent. Our Wetlands. Our Legacy. The coalition is working together to secure at least $3 billion by 2026 through an international fundraising campaign, the result of which will fund conservation and restoration projects for wetlands throughout North America.

What they’re saying: "One million acres of tangible conservation in one year is an achievement that's nearly 90 years in the making," says DU CEO Adam Putnam. "This is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated staff and volunteers following years of exponential conservation growth. We don't just advocate for wetlands - our mission moves dirt. Ducks see it. Communities see it. Partners see it. Each acre represents in-the-field success. Combined with our most ambitious comprehensive campaign in history, Conservation For a Continent, DU members and supporters are more motivated than ever before to make an impact on the wetlands and waterfowl we love."