50 Years of Conservation in Quebec: A Milestone for Ducks Unlimited Canada

Quebec City, Quebec, February 27, 2026 — Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) officially launched its 50th anniversary celebrations in Quebec yesterday, marking five decades of conservation work across the province. For 50 years, the organization has delivered impactful projects, forged strong partnerships, championed environmental innovation, and helped shape the landscape itself. These five decades of action have been made possible by the generosity of donors and the unwavering commitment of staff and volunteers.

To mark this milestone and look ahead to the future, DUC brought together partners, friends, supporters, and members of the conservation community at Montreal’s Marché Bonsecours on February 26. The event was organized by dedicated volunteers, including board member Roger d’Eschambault, who has been involved with the organization for more than 40 years:

“The return of the Ducks dinner this year offers a special opportunity to recognize all those who, since 1976, have helped protect thousands of hectares of wetlands, areas that are vital to biodiversity, water quality, and the resilience of communities across Quebec. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished, and I look forward to what the next decade will bring.”

A Celebration Rooted in Gratitude and Focused on the Future

“If we are able to celebrate 50 years of impact today, it is entirely thanks to the people who are deeply committed to protecting nature, and wetlands in particular,” said Mélanie Deslongchamps, Manager of Provincial Operations for Quebec at Ducks Unlimited Canada. “Our donors, partners, employees, and volunteers are the reason we can still restore, conserve, and showcase wetlands across the province. And in the years ahead, we will need them more than ever. Wetlands are a powerful buffer against climate change, a place of renewal when eco-anxiety feels overwhelming, and an endless source of wonder.”

Actor Fabien Cloutier, a true nature enthusiast and the evening’s guest spokesperson, underscored the shared responsibility of protecting wetlands:

“Protecting our land, our waters, and our territory is not a luxury, it is a responsibility. Wetlands are part of our collective heritage. They are what we will pass on to future generations. The team at Ducks Unlimited Canada works tirelessly to make this possible, and it is an honour to stand alongside them this evening.”

Fifty Years of Conservation and Restoration… and Only the Beginning

Since its early days in Quebec, DUC has worked in partnership with municipalities, farmers, Indigenous peoples, businesses, and thousands of volunteers to bring its mission to life. But climate and environmental challenges are accelerating, and the pressure on ecosystems is intensifying.

Today, more than ever, DUC still needs your help to:

• restore more wetlands;
• conserve important habitats for wildlife;
• ensure the resilience of landscapes and communities;
• continue to celebrate conservation successes.

Together, let’s preserve nature, our shared treasure, for generations to come!