Alaska is the cornerstone of the Pacific Flyway. It’s the wetland capital of North America, providing habitat, launching epic journeys, connecting international bird populations, and anchoring coordinated conservation efforts. Its unique ecosystems and geographic position make it indispensable to the health and continuity of this vital migratory corridor.
Despite this importance, waterfowl numbers in Alaska are on the decline and its wetlands are shrinking. After steadily rising from the late 1970s through the early 2000s, breeding duck populations have since dropped by half. The reasons for this decline remain unclear, though possible factors include:
Ducks Unlimited's Alaska Born To Fly Initiative is a bold effort to ensure that Alaska remains a priority waterfowl breeding habitat within the Pacific Flyway. Doing so will require a better understanding of why Alaska’s wetlands may be changing, and what that means for waterfowl, wildlife, Native communities, and development in remote areas. DU will use advanced science and technology to map changes, inform decisions, and drive conservation in Alaska where it matters most.
We’re investing in science to understand why some duck and goose populations are declining. DU and partners have proposed targeted studies on nest predation and wetland changes affecting key species like mallards, pintail, wigeon, green-winged teal, white-fronted geese, and cackling geese. This research will guide future Alaska wetland conservation priorities.
Using new remote sensing technology, DU will track how Alaska’s wetlands have changed over the past 40 years, and how they continue to evolve. This data will be shared with communities, corporations, and agencies to guide smart, conservation-minded decisions and support long-term Alaska wetland habitat management.
DU will work with local partners to promote land use practices and policies that benefit people, wildlife, and Alaska’s vast wetlands. Our science will help inform development decisions and conservation priorities across the state and the Pacific Flyway region.
DU's volunteers are the heart of its conservation efforts. They play an indispensable role in the organization’s mission by actively participating in Alaska habitat restoration projects, fundraising efforts, and advocacy work. DU’s volunteers in Alaska are deeply connected to the land and often the first to see change happening. As a result, we’re strengthening our volunteers' efforts and investing in their work.
Everything we do in Alaska is rooted in collaboration. From Native communities to public agencies, DU is committed to working with those who live, work, and rely on these lands to ensure a future that benefits both people and wildlife. This collaboration is essential for sustainable Alaska wetland conservation.
Alaska holds approximately 63% of the US wetlands. Wetlands purify water and sequester carbon, buffer against climate change, and support biodiversity. They also support cultural resources and livelihoods of many Alaskans through subsistence hunting and fishing, and public recreation opportunities. These ecosystem services are vital for Alaska waterfowl habitat and the entire Pacific Flyway.
Assist with Alaska wetland restoration projects or educational outreach
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