Conservationists in training

I don’t have to imagine what happens with a wetland restoration project or where funding dollars go. I can see it in action.

Contrary to my initial impressions of DUC, it has diverse staff and diverse initiatives, and I truly think that they have something for everyone. Interested in natural climate solutions? Wetlands do that. Checking birds off your bucket list? Wetlands. Canoeing? Restorative agriculture? The breadth is impressive and the practicality of the solutions is inspiring.

My biggest takeaway is how farming practices with conservation in mind can greatly benefit not only waterfowl but entire ecosystems.

I always had an idea of what DUC is and what it stands for, but the ICT Weekend revealed the true extent of DUC’s involvement and commitment to conservation for the improvement of not only wetlands, ducks, and grasslands, but also for our benefit as a society.

Motivations for conservation can differ… even among DUC staff! Some are hunters; some are botanists; some are passionate birders or educators or canoeists! Your personal motivations for conservation are important, but what is perhaps more important is what we can achieve when we recognize our shared goals.”