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Ducks Unlimited Canada Executive to Head American Affiliate 
OAK HAMMOCK MARSH, MAN., JULY 21, 1999 – Don Young, Ducks Unlimited Canada's (DUC) executive vice-president and chief operating officer, has accepted the position of executive vice-president with DU's American affiliate, DU Inc., headquartered in Memphis, Tenn.
Young, originally from Regina, Sask., has an extensive history with DU that started over 25 years ago when he was hired as a DUC waterfowl biologist in Saskatchewan. He obtained his MSc in waterfowl biology at the University of Alberta and progressed into a career in environmental consulting. He became co-owner of an international consulting firm with 1,500 employees prior to returning to DUC in 1995 to take the top staff position. Having volunteered on two DUC fund-raising committees, Young has been active in all facets of the organization's activities.
"My international consulting career and my responsibilities with DUC have taught me to think beyond political borders in terms of conservation issues," Young said. "This is an opportunity for American and Canadian partners to maintain and strengthen commitments to conservation that are the foundation and the essence of Ducks Unlimited."
Young will assume his new duties in Memphis later this summer. He will lead DU's Canadian and American operations until the DU Canada board of directors select a replacement.
"Don's leadership has undoubtedly heightened our conservation success," said Tod Wright, president of DUC. "He has strong ties to DUC and we fully expect his leadership capacity in his new position to be a positive influence in our future."
During his four years with DUC, Young oversaw approximately 350 full-time employees. Under his guidance, the conservation company's membership grew from 83,000 to 123,000 and revenues generated in Canada increased from $16 million to $23 million. In its 60 year history of habitat conservation work, DUC has conserved over 18 million acres of habitat in the country.
Young replaces Matt Connolly who announced his retirement earlier this year. DU Inc.'s directors are anticipating great accomplishments from Young.
"Don was an ideal candidate for the position," said DU Inc. president Julius Wall. "His knowledge of waterfowl biology and conservation practices, combined with his business experience and people skills, should mean a bright future for Ducks Unlimited and for the wildlife of North America."
Young will oversee more than 400 DU Inc. staff members. DU Inc. is supported by 700,000 American members and 50,000 volunteers.
Ducks Unlimited Canada is a private, nonprofit, charitable organization dedicated to conserving wetlands and associated habitats for the benefit of North America's waterfowl, which in turn provide healthy environments for wildlife and people.
