What is Flood and Drought Resilience
Droughts and floods are natural hazards that can have a significant impact on wildlife, economies, and communities. Droughts can lead to water scarcity and reduce access to key transportation modes, recreation and water municipalities, industry and agriculture. Conversely, excess water causes floods that can disrupt transportation, endanger communities, contaminate water sources and damage infrastructure.
Through strategies of sustainable water management, natural infrastructure, habitat restoration and community engagement, we are implementing projects to mitigate the impacts of floods and drought on landscapes.
Impacts of Flooding
- Water quality issues
- Economic disruption
- Habitat destruction
- Infrastructure loss
Impacts of Drought
- Water scarcity
- Food insecurity
- Economic losses
- Wildlife habitat degradation
How We Work to Mitigate Flood and Drought
Flood Resiliency Efforts
Ducks Unlimited implements a variety of nature-based solutions for flood resiliency:
Wetland restoration: Ducks Unlimited works to restore and conserve wetlands as they act as natural sponges that absorb excess water and reduce flood impacts. These include headwater wetlands and floodplain wetlands.
Riparian Buffers: Ducks Unlimited plants vegetation along riverbanks helps to stabilize soil and reduce erosion.
Drought Resiliency Efforts
Watershed Management: Ducks Unlimited improves water efficiency and reduces erosion and pollution by protecting and restoring essential water resources like rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
Native vegetation: Ducks Unlimited removes invasive vegetation and replants native vegetation across certain regions to reduce water loss and enhance drought resilience.
Sustainable Agricultural: Ducks Unlimited provides financial assistance and technical assistance to producers to implement irrigation efficiency projects that minimize water use while maintaining yields. Some research also shows that building soil carbon through reduced tillage and other soil health practices can improve water retention in crop fields, thereby reducing drought stress.
