Ducks Unlimited Announces 2024 Wetland Conservation Achievement Award Winners

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – April 3, 2024 – Ducks Unlimited (DU) announced the winners of the 2024 Wetland Conservation Achievement Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the conservation and restoration of North America's wetlands and waterfowl. The awards, spanning nine categories, were presented at the 89th North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

"Each year, Ducks Unlimited proudly acknowledges the significant contributions of individuals from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to wetland and waterfowl conservation across North America. These dedicated partners, colleagues, and leaders have been pivotal in conserving these essential resources," said DU Chief Conservation Officer Dr. Karen Waldrop. "DU is able to strive toward our collective conservation mission because of dedicated individuals working together, and the 2024 awardees highlight the impact of this unified passion. DU is honored to recognize their achievements and inspirational efforts."

Federal Elected/Appointed Official

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U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, Michigan: A key advocate for conservation, Sen. Stabenow has been an instrumental leader on the Senate Agriculture Committee and helped create the Regional Conservation Partnership Program as well as the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Her efforts in Congress have helped promote sustainable wetland management practices, significantly enhancing water quality and habitat preservation efforts across major flyways.

Federal Agency Employee

Scott Edwards, Missouri State Conservationist, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): Edwards has been crucial in evolving conservation strategies and practices. His leadership in Missouri and Louisiana has bolstered DU's Agricultural Working Lands Program and advanced grassland conservation, setting new standards for ecosystem restoration.

State Elected/Appointed Official

State Sen. John Cherry, Michigan: Senator Cherry's commitment to Michigan's natural resources, particularly through securing unprecedented funding for wetland conservation, has marked a historic milestone in state-level environmental policy. His advocacy has laid a foundation for sustainable conservation funding mechanisms.

State/Provincial Agency

Luke Naylor and Jason Jackson, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission: This team has driven significant wetland restoration initiatives in Arkansas, enhancing habitat quality and management. Their efforts in the Lower Mississippi Valley Joint Venture exemplify leadership in regional conservation planning and implementation.

Communications

Cindy Delaney, President & CEO, Delaney Event Management: Delaney has played a critical role in fostering communication and collaboration within the conservation community. Her expertise in organizing impactful gatherings has facilitated vital dialogue and partnership development.

Research/Technical

Dr. Elizabeth (Lisa) Webb, Unit Supervisor, Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units, United States Geological Survey: Dr. Webb's innovative research has significantly advanced our understanding of wetland ecology and management. Her work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also guides practical conservation efforts and policy.

Local/Private Conservation (Private Landowner)

Becky Hatfield-Hyde and Taylor Hyde: In Oregon's Upper Klamath, the Hydes have exemplified private land conservation, restoring critical habitats and fostering community engagement in conservation efforts, thereby setting a benchmark for private landowners.

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Chad and Jennifer Kunz: The Kunzes have been instrumental in revitalizing North Dakota's wetland and grassland ecosystems, demonstrating the profound impact of private stewardship on local biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Nonprofit/Foundations

David Farren, Executive Director (Retired), Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelly Foundation: Farren's leadership at the Foundation has significantly contributed to land conservation efforts, particularly in the Chicago and Lowcountry areas, by fostering innovative collaborations and strategic land protection efforts that have conserved over 1.4 million acres.

Wetlands Conservation Legacy Award

Sara Parker Pauley, Director, Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC): Under Director Pauley's guidance, MDC has seen significant advancements in conservation strategies and practices, enhancing both public and private land conservation in Missouri. Her focus on collaborative efforts has been pivotal in expanding conservation programs and promoting a unified approach to environmental stewardship.

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 18 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. DU is growing its mission through a historic $3 billion Conservation For A Continent capital campaign. Learn more at www.ducks.org.

Media Contact:

Nathan Ratchford

Conservation Communications Coordinator

(570) 406-4925

nratchford@ducks.org