A leader in Canadian habitat conservation
Ducks Unlimited Canada is a leader in Canadian habitat conservation
We conserve, restore and manage wetlands and grasslands to benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people. Our goal is to ensure abundant wetlands and waterfowl for generations to come while improving Canadian lives. Waterfowl are migratory. That’s why our conservation efforts impact diverse areas across the entire country—including your community.
Impact Areas
Wetlands
Waterfowl live, feed and breed in wetlands—but humans also depend on wetlands for flood protection, erosion reduction and greenhouse gas reduction.
Our impact on wetlands
Grasslands
Up to 75% of native grasslands in Prairie Canada are gone, diminishing critical waterfowl nesting habitat, environmental value and economic benefits.
Our impact on grasslands
Boreal Forest
Boreal forest covers more than half of Canada. We work with industry, government and communities to conserve natural habitat in this crucial region.
Our impact on the boreal forest
Water
Your community’s health depends on water. Water depends on wetlands. Clean water and healthy rivers and lakes are some ways wetlands make water work for you.
Our impact on water
Waterfowl
In 1938, a group of conservation-minded hunters recognized the connection between wetlands and duck populations. DUC has been the Canadian authority on wetlands and waterfowl ever since.
Our impact on waterfowl
Wildlife
We conserve the wildlife habitat that allow thousands of plants and animals to thrive, including at-risk species. We also battle threatening invasive species.
Our impact on wildlife
We believe in getting things done
Since 1938, we’ve completed more than 10,366 projects and conserved, restored and positively influenced more than 158.8 million acres of habitat. That’s an area nearly the size of Manitoba.
Despite our progress, we still lose up to 80 acres of wetlands every day in Canada—the equivalent of 45 soccer fields. Most of these wetlands are on Crown land or private property owned by families, farms and industry.
DUC understands that conservation and economic development must progress together. We know the benefit of strategic alliances and the value of a working landscape. Our work would be impossible without co-operation from hundreds of Canadian and American partners from a variety of sectors.
Whether informing governments on policy or helping farmers get the most from their land, all our partners rely on our sound advice. Our credibility is everything. All our work is based on a foundation of science. DUC experts are constantly in the air, on the water or in the lab researching the most effective methods to conserve wetlands now and in the future.
Our Approach
Conserving wetlands and habitats across North America is a challenge. We bring together a number of approaches to get it done efficiently and effectively.
Science
From satellite systems to statistics, we use cutting-edge technology and the latest research to inform our work.
Education
Future conservation depends on the next generation. Our award-winning education programs inspire students of all ages.
Policy
We’ve been part of the largest conservation agreements in history, but there’s still much to do. We give a voice to wetlands and wildlife.
Partnerships
Joint ventures, affinity agreements and corporate sponsorships are just some of the ways our partners support us.
Landowners
Our programs and incentives help farmers conserve wetlands on their properties. They are the original stewards of Canada's land.
Volunteers
Whether hosting fundraising events or maintaining our land, passionate volunteers are the backbone of our organization.