Video: Hazard Campbell Dedication

On September 29, nearly 100 people from across the continent met in Saskatchewan's Thickwood Hills region to dedicate Ducks Unlimited's Diehl Project to Hazard Campbell, of Buffalo, New York, one of DU's most ardent and influential supporters.

"I could not imagine a more fitting tribute to this very special leader than this exemplary habitat project. Indeed, Hazard's commitment to DU as a supporter and volunteer for more than 50 years has been nothing short of outstanding," said John Newman, president of Ducks Unlimited.

Campbell served as president of Ducks Unlimited from 1986 to 1987, a critical time for Ducks Unlimited as the organization began expanding its conservation work into the United States.

The Diehl Project spans approximately 140 acres rich with wetlands ranging from small potholes to larger, shallow wetlands, providing excellent habitat for breeding ducks. The region regularly supports nesting densities approaching 50 pairs per square mile.

"This project honors a man whose generosity and dedication exemplify the DU way, a man whom I greatly respect, and a man whose conservation legacy inspires us all," Newman said.

Campbell selected the Diehl Project (along with DU's Rescue the Duck Factory Campaign and Lake Ontario Initiatives) to benefit from funds raised during a tribute event held in his honor last year in New York. Led by a cross-border volunteer committee, the event raised $1.2 million for conservation efforts in both Canada and the United States.

"By choosing to have tribute gifts that support conservation initiatives in both the United States and Canada, Hazard continues a lifetime commitment to providing continental waterfowl habitat. His passion for the great outdoors, his ongoing volunteer involvement, and his dedication to the mission set a high standard for all volunteers," said DUC President Tom Worden.

During the dedication, DU leaders unveiled a permanent cairn dedicating the project to Hazard Campbell.