La Tuque teen selected for eco-adventure of a lifetime

Oak Hammock Marsh, Man., August 8, 2007—When Alexandra Mathieu of La Tuque, QC returns to school this fall, she’ll be able to look back on a summer that included the eco-adventure of a lifetime. Selected from scores of applicants, Mathieu got an early start to International Youth Day (Aug. 12) when she 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, the group of teens was selected and fully sponsored by DUC to participate in a challenging and exciting week of adventure and education to develop the skills they’ll need to become the environmental leaders of the next generation. Learning from DUC biologists and conservation experts from other agencies, the 12 enthusiastic teens spent a week studying wetlands, banding birds, using high-tech tools like radio telemetry and GPS, and much more.

For 13-year-old Mathieu, the GGA was a perfect fit since she “loves everything to do with nature and animals.” Although banding ducks and learning how wetlands are important were two of her most memorable activities at the GGA, Mathieu was enthusiastic about the entire experience. “I’m learning more about the animals that live here and how to help them,” she said. “It’s a really cool experience and I’m learning lots of things that will benefit my career.” Mathieu hopes to be involved in veterinary medicine or animal care after graduating from university.

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.”

Mathieu wants to make sure that everyone knows about the benefits of wetlands. “As a Ducks Unlimited member I understand the importance of protecting water and swamps.” She said, and pledged to share her experiences at the GGA with younger students at her school through a presentation.

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