How Sadie became a Wetland Hero

DUC is proud to recognize nine-year-old Sadie Courtney as our newest Wetland Hero.

Sadie took great initiative to research wetlands and lead a successful fundraiser in an effort to conserve her local watershed.

Sadie’s journey to Wetland Hero status began at her school during “Genius Hour”, an independent study session where students research a topic that interests them. Sadie, who loves exploring the Penatangore river watershed  in Kincardine, Ontario, dove headfirst into learning about watersheds and wetlands.

“I learned so many things. Wetlands help stop flooding. They protect animals,” says Sadie. “They absorb the bad stuff and keep our water clean.”

After Genius Hour, Sadie felt inspired to take action for wetlands. She went home and immediately started brainstorming ideas with her mom, Julie, on how to make a difference.

“I suggested putting on a fundraiser—we wanted to make a real impact on conservation,” says Julie. “It would work well for Sadie, too, since she’s a natural talker.”

Sadie and Julie had just been to Greenock Swamp the weekend before, a short drive from their place. Greenock Swamp is Southern Ontario’s largest forested wetland and an important stop for many migrating birds.

They remembered seeing the Ducks Unlimited Canada sign at the entrance and that inspired them to pick DUC as the receiving charity.

“It seemed like a great fit,” says Julie.