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The values of appreciating nature are passed down from generation to generation, and so are the stories of DUC and its lessons of wetland conservation. For Bill Wells, DUC is not only an organization that shares his passion for the great outdoors, but one that has strong ties to his father and is an important part of keeping his memory alive.

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Bill Wells – Brooks, Alta.

DUC star volunteer carries on tradition

In the world of Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), traditions run deep. The values of appreciating nature are passed down from generation to generation, and so are the stories of DUC and its lessons of wetland conservation. For Bill Wells, DUC is not only an organization that shares his passion for the great outdoors, but one that has strong ties to his father and is an important part of keeping his memory alive.

“When I was a youngster, there were Ducks projects on our property and my dad was extremely involved with the chapter here in Brooks,” Bill says. “I grew up hearing the words Ducks Unlimited before I could even understand what they meant. Now that I’m a volunteer on that same chapter, I’ve gained a greater understanding about why it was such a big part of his life.”

Bill’s father, Wally Wells, was a longtime DUC supporter and volunteer. After his passing, the Brooks chapter named their annual fundraising event after him for several years. Bill and his family always attended the event to support the special cause, but last year Bill decided to get more involved and join the chapter as a volunteer.

“DUC is a cause I truly believe in,” says Bill. “Becoming a volunteer was another way I could support it and is my way of giving back.”

Together, Bill and the rest of the Brooks chapter volunteers host an annual fundraising event that helps raise significant funds for wetland conservation. Although Bill is humble about the significance of his contributions, Archie Balaski, DUC’s fundraising manager in the area, says that Bill was instrumental in the success of last year’s fundraising dinner.

“Bill is a great addition to the Brooks chapter,” Balaski says. “Despite having a very busy schedule, he always makes time to help with chapter activities. Like his father, Bill is an excellent volunteer who truly believes in the cause and is making a real difference in conserving wetland areas in Alberta.”

National volunteer week, April 19-25, is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the work of volunteers like Bill. Perry McCormick, DUC’s national manager of events, says evidence of the outstanding work of volunteers can be seen across the country.

“We have volunteers to thank for the waterfowl flying overhead and the healthy wetland areas below our feet,” McCormick says. “I’d like to personally thank every one of our 7,400 volunteers. It’s your efforts that make DUC’s wetland conservation work possible.”

Aware that today’s challenging economic environment could affect the chapter’s fundraising efforts into the future, Bill encourages people to consider how they can continue supporting the cause. He says one of the most valuable gifts someone can give is the gift of time. By becoming a volunteer like he did, Bill says people will make a valuable contribution – and experience the satisfaction that comes with working with others toward a shared goal.

“Ducks people are good people. I’ve made some great friends and had a lot of fun while volunteering with the chapter. I can understand why it was such a big deal to my dad because it’s now a big deal for me.”