Woodpoint teen selected for eco-adventure of a lifetime

Oak Hammock Marsh, Man., August 8, 2007—When Brandon Hicks of Woodpoint, NB returns to school this fall, he’ll be able to look back on a summer that included the eco-adventure of a lifetime. Selected from scores of applicants, Hicks got an early start to International Youth Day (Aug. 12) when he joined 9 other youth from across Canada and two from the U.S. to participate in Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC)’s Great Greenwing Adventure (GGA).

Based at Oak Hammock Marsh from, the group of teens was selected and fully sponsored by DUC to participate in a challenging and exciting week of adventure and education that is sure to develop the skills they’ll need to become the environmental leaders of the next generation. The 12 enthusiastic teens spent a week studying wetlands, banding birds, using high-tech tools like radio telemetry and GPS, and much more.

16-year-old Hicks already has much experience exploring wetlands. As an intern and student at the Tantramar Wetlands Centre of Excellence in Sackville, he not only studies the local wetland and completes conservation projects, but also educates younger students about the values of wetlands. “Up to 70 per cent of wetlands are gone,” he says. “And it’s something that’s hard to get back. By educating youth today, we can stop that destructive path.”

The GGA offered Hicks the chance to meet some of DUC’s top scientists and see staff from a variety of conservation organizations at work, something he was looking forward to. “I hope to gain a better knowledge of career opportunities in an environmental field,” he said of the GGA. “It’s very good on a resume.” Hicks plans to study resource management after graduating high school.

Now in its thirteenth year, the annual GGA was created to reward keen, young naturalists—who are tomorrow’s conservation leaders and decision-makers—with a fun-filled, hands-on learning adventure that teaches them skills and instills in them a lifelong appreciation for wetlands, wildlife and conservation.

“The GGA puts teens in touch with nature and with other young people from across Canada that share their interests,” said Dr. Rick Wishart, DUC’s director of education. “Some of our participants have gone on to studies and careers in conservation and related fields. And everyone goes home with new skills and experiences that create a positive impact on their lives.”

Hicks encouraged teens to apply for next year’s GGA. “Definitely apply,” he said. “It’s an amazing experience - you’ll never forget it”.

Information about the 2008 GGA will be posted in February.

For more information please contact:

Leigh Patterson
Corporate Media Relations Specialist
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Phone: (204) 467-3306
Toll-free: 1-800-665-3825
Email: l_patterson@ducks.ca