A career in science and conservation

Over the years, Jim has helped DUC to better understand factors limiting animal populations of conservation concern, ranging from northern pintails to grassland birds to pollinators while developing key decision-support tools that have allowed us to wisely invest millions of dollars for conservation, including the financial contributions from generous donors.

Not only has Jim been an irreplaceable member of the DUC team driving progress for our work, but he has engaged internationally with many groups to influence conservation science and planning across the continent. That’s why earlier this year, Ducks Unlimited, Inc. in the U.S. presented him with an Excellence in Conservation Award to recognize his lifetime career achievements.

In this article from the just-published spring issue of Conservator magazine, we asked Jim to reflect on his experience conducting his prairie research, and to leave us with some thoughts for the future. He said:

“Only when we understand something can we truly value it.”

Nowhere is this maxim truer than in the world of habitat conservation. And we’re proud to say that ongoing efforts to expand our understanding of wetlands and waterfowl—will be in good hands.

Continuing Jim’s legacy of science excellence, which included boldly embracing innovation and new technologies, are our current team of researchers, and up-and-comers being nurtured and supported via our Endowed Chair in Wetland and Waterfowl Conservation and our Fellowships program, not to mention youth who participate in our Education initiatives.