GREAT MIGRATIONS How Do We Get to Where We’Re Going?

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CELEBRATING 80YEARSOFCONSERVATION EXCELLENCE GREAT MIGRATIONS How do we get to where we’re going?

2 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 ©DUC Cover: © Linda Leigh Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 3 How do we know which paths to take?

4 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 ©DUC/Jeope Wolfe Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 5 What will give us energy?

6 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 ©DUC Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 7 8 Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnual Report 2018 test ourresolve? What headwindswill

© DUC/ Brian Wolitski healthier future? thrive andcreate a Can we survive, Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201811 These are questions of all great migrations. The answers are found in the wonders of the natural world—and in the hearts, minds and actions of people who are committed to protecting them.

For 80 years, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) has channeled the power of nature’s great migrations to navigate our own. Like the incredible journeys of waterfowl, the generosity of our supporters knows no boundaries. Our convictions marry hope with hard work. Our efforts are rooted in science and driven by an innate desire to grow, adapt and live in harmony with our environment.

DUC’s great migrations have taken us from one end of the continent to the other. They’ve introduced us to people of all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles. They’ve shown us how land, water, wildlife and the well-being of our communities are interconnected. They’ve saved millions of acres of critical natural habitat.

Together, millions of migrating waterfowl and the thousands of people who proudly wear DUC’s duck head on their sleeves are the country’s greatest symbol of conservation.

12 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 ©DUC Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 13 14 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 TABLE OF CONTENTS 62 60 58 56 54 52 50 48 46 44 42 40 38 36 34 32 30 28 26 24 22 20 18 17 Message fromthePresident &ChairmanoftheBoard Science FinancialSummary FinancialOverview Board ofDirectors &Leadership Boreal Region Newfoundland &Labrador PrinceEdward Island Nova Scotia New Brunswick Quebec Ontario Manitoba Saskatchewan Alberta BritishColumbia Grassroots Fundraising PhilanthropicGiving Education Policy Conservation NationalFacts Rescue OurWetlands International Partnerships Campaign

A journey 80 years in the making

What we can do for wetlands and wildlife has only just begun

Eighty years is a lifetime, if you’re lucky. For DUC, it’s only the beginning.

As DUC celebrates its 80th anniversary, we count ourselves extremely lucky to be part of such a pioneering and enduring organization. And while we wish we could say the same about ourselves, DUC isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. This is a conservation machine that continues gaining speed, strength and support from Canada’s growing community of conservationists.

Within this passionate community is where you’ll find DUC’s secret to longevity. By surrounding ourselves with motivated and generous people, we’re changing landscapes and legislation. We’re raising funds that will stem the tide of wetland loss and inspire a new wave of conservationists. We enjoy this success because people from all walks of life are rallying around one of the world’s most important ecosystems: wetlands.

You’ll see examples of DUC’s people power throughout the pages of this annual report. This includes landowners and lobbyists, students and scientists, as well as countless volunteers, donors and partners. All are taking DUC’s conservation journey to new places. They’re en route to securing a healthier future for their families, communities and the natural areas that mean the most to them.

Looking ahead to the next 80 years, we know what DUC can do for wetlands, wildlife and the world of conservation has only just begun. Together, we’ll navigate many more great migrations. We’re proud and thankful to have you by our side. MESSAGE FROM THE FROM THE MESSAGE PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Yours in conservation,

David Blom James Couch President Chairman of the Board ©DUC/Chris Benson

16 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 17 18 18 RESCUE OUR WETLANDS CAMPAIGN tremendous impact ofthe We lookforward to sharing thefinal results andcelebrating the for water, wildlife andyou. energy to pushbeyond ourlimits.Itdemandswe doourvery best— The significanceofwhat we’re saving demandsthat we findthe adapt to achangingenvironment wrought withitsown challenges. the CanadianPrairies. Itremains ourmotivationtoday aswe strive to founders’ mindset80years agoastheybattled cripplingdrought on “good enough.” It’s aboutbeingthebestwe canbe. Thiswasour surprising. That’s becauseDUC’s culture hasnever beenabout being As impressive astheseachievements maybe, they’re far from from achievingourgoalto seeinghow far we canexceed it. With thecampaignnow initsfinalphase, thechallengehasshifted date, andthelargest waterfowl andwetlands campaigninhistory. Rescue OurWetlands in Canadais$500million. $2 billion for wetland conservationbyDecember31, 2018.Ourgoal comprehensive fundraisingseven-year campaignsetagoalofraising you next year. the United States andMexico to launch In 2012,DUCjoinedforces withDucksUnlimited organizations in off thecharts. staff are pushing farther and reaching higher to achieve results thatare campaign isinspiringproof ofexactly this.Volunteers, supporters and and people, ourpotential isunlimited. DUC’s to conserve wetlands andother natural spacesfor waterfowl, wildlife Unlimited. higher reaching farther, Pushing It’s rightinourname—the beliefthatwhenwe work together isourmostambitiousfundraising campaignto Rescue OurWetlands Rescue OurWetlands Rescue OurWetlands campaignwith . The

©DUC/Chris Benson Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201819 Our conservation success Our financial commitment

Stewarding the land is in our nature. DUC’s time-tested formula is simple and effective. We secure important at-risk wetlands, In the 2018 fiscal year, DUC invested 93 per cent of available revenue in habitat conservation, restore those that have been drained and damaged and manage the areas under our care. Our work delivers results you can research, public policy and education. wade in and walk on.

Results from Uses of the 2018 funds acres of habitat conserved1 fiscal year: 105,902 Does not include $79.4 MILLION $12.1 million in (42,857 hectares) This includes 48,442 acres restored (19,604 hectares) fundraising and Conservation (includes capitalized conservation land purchases) philanthropic expenses 5.2 MILLION acres of habitat positively influenced2 $6.1 MILLION (2.1 MILLION hectares) This includes 370,370 acres restored (149,883 hectares) Administration (excludes $1.2 million in financial system implementation costs)

Sources Cumulative of funds results to date – since 1938: 6.4 MILLION acres of habitat conserved1 (2.6 MILLION hectares) This includes 3.0 million acres restored (1.2 million hectares)

157.1 MILLION acres of habitat positively influenced2 (63.6 MILLION hectares) This includes 1.3 million acres restored (528,784 hectares) As of March 31, 2018 As of March NATIONAL FACTS NATIONAL

11,892 habitat projects

1 Through land purchase, management agreements, conservation easements and leases. 2 Through retention or restoration measures of less than 10 years or policy projects.

Our conservation Supporters community of tomorrow Government Fundraising Program 126,000 149,700 grants revenue* revenue people making a difference Canadians gaining greater awareness Non-government partnerships Investment income A diverse mix of donors, landowners, students Canadians are connecting with us through social and teachers, fundraising event attendees and media and political advocacy websites. They’re also many other supporters are taking action to further exploring the world of conservation for themselves by DUC’s conservation mission. Our conservation visiting our interpretive centres. All are gaining greater $51.5 million $20.3 million $13.5 million $8.3 million $7.4 million community is championed by 5,600 dedicated awareness and sharing our conservation messages with volunteers across the country. others within their spheres of influence. * Includes gift-in-kind-donations ©DUC/Jeope Wolfe

20 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 21 22 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 CONSERVATION drought prevention aswell asrecreation flow all from opportunities theseprojects. where tothe landscape itprovidesback ahostof other environmental benefits. Cleanwater, floodand itat. Oftheseprotected areas, 3,830acres (1,550hectares) were restored. habitat important This brings usedthefundstoprotectDUC 29,180acres (11,809hectares) wetland andsurrounding ofprime hab- birds. migratory to nestingpopulations isone toensure ofthebestways America’s thehealth andwell-being ofNorth stage oftheirmigration journey.cies require atevery support Investing inCanadian habitatthat’s key Mexico, tothePrairies makessense. sendinglegalsettlementmoney north spe- That’s affected because resulted OilSpill. from the2010Deepwater Horizon of took Althoughtheevent place intheGulf thepastthree years,Over Bird accessed through $15.5million DUC theMigratory Treaty Act that Saskatchewan. Treaty Act, iskeepingmore DUC oftheseproductive throughout potholeson landscapes Manitobaand America’s birds.North migratory of Bird funding accessedthroughThanks tosignificant theMigratory survival. Inthiscase, potholesare shallow wetlands breeding thatprovide millions habitatfor prime ofpotholes.Most peopledotheirbesttosteerclear Waterfowl, on theotherhand, seekthemoutfor Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects keywaterfowl Funding habitat breeding Major investments inthePrairie Pothole Region

©DUC/Jeope Wolfe Treaty Act. funds madeavailable Bird through theMigratory This provided all ofthematch nearly needed for stepped forward withdonations of$3millioneach. thesethree donors of generosity andsupport, the Prairie Pothole anincredible Region. In show could radically advance in wetland conservation Grohne andJimKennedyrecognized thefunds andphilanthropists JohnChilds,supporters Dave to match thegrants dollarfor dollar. Long-time DUC our applications could beapproved, DUCneeded come. Butaccessing themoneywasn’t easy. Before benefit waterfowl for generationsconservation to Bird oftheMigratory Results Treaty fundingwill Act and JimKennedy GrohneJohn Childs,Dave Partner spotlight andSaskatchewan. Manitoba 29,180 acres (11,809 hectares) in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects A $15.5-millioninvestment through Collaborations withlandowners • Revolving landconservationprograms • Restoration andmitigationwork • Conservationeasements • conservation toolstobenefit wetlands: DUC usesadiverse collectionof the continent. country, andourresults ripplethroughout wildlife populations.Ourworkspansthe measure oursuccess inhealthy habitatand and managementisourtoppriority. We effective wetland conservation, restoration DUC’s foundationfor80years. Delivering Boots-on-the-ground workhasbeen rangeland programs through winter wheat,forage and Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201823 24 DucksUnlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 SCIENCE This research wasmade possible through a generous donation fromPuchniak. Bob throughout the efforts Prairies. practices andhabitatconservation role sustainableagricultural indeveloping Research continue inbothprovinces will through 2020. Resultsfrom play thesestudieswill asignificant 2018,In spring expandedtheresearch DUC tostudysitesnearHumboldt, Sask. intheParkland ecoregion. cropland fields. 130 beespecies. food ofbothnestinghabitatand resourcesfor native beesin They’re also reservoirs lands andgrasslands. theareas Initialfindingsindicate surrounding wetlands are used by more than isleading thisbuzz-worthy investigationDUC crop- through afour-year Alberta studyinsouthern scientists headed intothefieldtofindout. that measures communities therole our theseimportant wetlands islacking—so play insupporting bees andhover flies, beneficial insectslike ground beetles. as asotheragriculturally well But research diverse areas communitiesforaging thatsupport ofpollinators. bumblebees,This includes solitary theuncultivated areas scientistsbelieve surroundingDUC wetlands nestingand provide undisturbed changes. andthestory wetland conservation habitat,Without environmental todeliver important benefitsisgreatly theirability reduced. Insert Across Canada’s landscapes, agricultural on habitattheseinsectsrely isdisappearing. thenatural to keepbusy…as bees. They’re tiny,for habitat. anddesperate mighty andotherbeneficialinsectsneedPollinators wetlands Research shows wetlandsare keytonestingandforaging Wetlands are thebee’s kneesfor pollinators

©iStock/photosbyjimn broader scientific community. and waterfowl habitat andstrengthen ourrelationship with the advance DUC’s aboutthevalue ofwetlands bodyofknowledge likethese Saskatchewan. in continually our efforts Partnerships Plant is overseeing at Sciences theUniversity ofSaskatchewan, Dr.in Alberta. Prager, Sean of anentomologist intheDepartment Design at theUniversity ofCalgary, ishelping guideourstudies alandscapeecologist intheFacultyGalpern, ofEnvironmental the relationship between wetlands andpollinators. Dr. Paul alongsidetop researchersDUC isworking to more learn about Dr. andDr. Galpern Paul Prager Sean Partner spotlight wetlands. southern Alberta surrounding areas dependon species More than130bee used toattractused pollinating insects. Dr. PragerDr. (left) and vane trapGalpern holdablue Equippinguswithenvironmental data • Givinguscredibility andinfluence • Informingourconservationprograms • our workby: Waterfowl Research, DUC’s scienceguides Led bytheInstitute forWetland and conservation tolife. are theplaceswhere scienceisbringing how DUCdoesourbestwork.These through cattail-lined wetlands. Thisis in ahelicopter seat.Navigating anairboat Counting duckbroodsfromhighabove Wading throughwaist-deepmarsh water. that ismeaningfultoallCanadians landowners with governments, industriesand waterfowl andpeople to achieve thebestoutcomes for Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201825 26 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 POLICY donations iskey. Now it’s time toget towork. to provide fundsrequired. thematching stepforward like DUC ourpublic andprivate Leveraging tions investmentBudget 2018isanhistoric innature. besuccessfulifpeopleandorganiza- only Butit will places thatmattermost. in bothareas. The Canada Nature forustodeliver greater impact in opportunity Fund isasignificant ment tolarge, area-based conservation. ofconservation hasastrong DUC history presence anda rich biodiversity.gains for The borealforest isalsopoisedtobenefitthroughGovernment’s the commit- lands, on private efforts conservation atthegreatestrisk and for are represent which often significant tosecure funds. theother$500million inmatching partners The Canada Nature can beused Fund money,federal $500 million in isoffering ernment and organizations andlooking toconservation aspectofthe Canadanew $1-billion investmentThe mostsignificant isthe Nature Fund. Gov- The across thecountry.the fundingaspossibletoaccelerate wetland conservation Wetlands are toadvancing thesepriorities, integral all on isfocused accessing asmuch andDUC of bird sanctuaries,migratory efforts. protected Indigenous-led for conservation areas andopportunities Announced inlateFebruary, speciesatrisk, measures new thatsupport important thebudget includes Canada’schanger for wetlands andwaterfowl. ofalifetime.the opportunity The $1.3-billion commitment budget madefederal isagame inthe2018 It’s approach conservation. anew tocollaborative Itdelivers future hopefor generations. For DUC, it’s tion announceshistoric$1.3-billioncommitmenttoconserva Government ofCanada Budget boostfor thebirds -

©Brendan Kelly federal budget includedmany oftheCoalition’s recommendations. recommendations to theGovernment ofCanada about themostpressing environmental issues. The 2018 oftheGreen organizations BudgetCoalition, of20 leadingconservation that anetwork presentsDUC ispart Coalition Budget Green Partner spotlight to collaborative conservation. budget represent anew approach Investments inthe2018federal NorthAmericanWaterfowl • Recreational FisheriesConservation • Natural Areas ConservationProgram • federal conservationprograms, including: policy efforts. We participate inavarietyof scale conservationthroughnationalpublic DUC hasalonghistoryofinfluencinglarge- wetlands. government tofurtherpoliciesthatsupport agents. DUCworkswithalllevels of We are partners, advisors anddelivery We are advocates. We are changemakers. Management Plan Partnerships Program Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201827 28 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 EDUCATION years ofeducation, recreation generations ofconservationists. continue and inspiration fostering executives, MarshInterpretive Centre peopleintheoutdoors. theOakHammock isschooling Twenty-five kids, school of inner-city it’s aclass Whether agroup ofinternational visitors oracollection ofcorporate BirdLife International. a Wetland Convention Bird underthe Ramsar Area andanImportant ofInternational Importance by Management Area birding isapremier hotspot, American North Marsh mock Wildlife registered as the marshdaily, from bestviewed thefacility’s aspectacle “green roof.”The surrounding OakHam- seewhy. migration season thepeakoffall andyou’ll induring Stop More use than100,000waterfowl place towork. habitat they’remersed inthenatural working toprotect. It’s place tovisit—andaunique acaptivating The buildingissharedDUC’s with national headquarters, where more than100employees are im- delivers andhands-on publiceducation programming toconnect people withwetlands year-round. 20kilometres of north Winnipeg,Located Man., isDUC’s thefacility flagshipinterpretive centre that connections withCanada’s life. withthemfor stick wetlands often of trails, spottedhundreds ofbird species andwitnessedaPrairie marsh’s seasons. changing These in thepast25years. canoed andcritter-dipped. They’ve wandered themore than30kilometres They’ve Two peoplehave million passedthrough MarshInterpretive Centre thedoorsofOakHammock DUC’s flagshipinterpretive centre celebrates 25 years Schooled intheoutdoors Centre over thepast25years. Interpretive Marsh Hammock Oak Two have millionpeople the visited

All: ©DUC/Jeope Wolfe Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Marsh Centre. Hammock Oak employeesCargill buildingbird feeders at wildlife. ofwetlands,importance waterfowl and youth across Canada regarding the which willinform andinspire years to DUC’s education programs, $100,000 peryear for three thenext company iscommitting more than sponsor. The international agri-food Cargill isDUC’s national education Partner spotlight DUC-operated interpretive centres • Wetland HeroesisDUC’s recognition • DUC’s Wetland Centres ofExcellence • action. wetlands inways thatinspire conservation connect Canada’s youthtothewonders of adaptation. DUC’s educationprograms life lessons aboutresiliency, diversity and within youngpeople. Itimpartsvaluable with itbreeds curiosityandconfidence Nature isapowerful teacher. Engaging facilities andprogramming. education throughtheiraward-winning Brunswick support youthandpublic in Manitoba,Nova ScotiaandNew conservation-related activities. people whoare undertakingtheirown program thatcelebrates young experiences withothers. leadership skillsbysharingtheir conservation andhelpthemdevelop engage studentswithwetland Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201829 30 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS ground toward a critical continental conservation goal.ground continental toward conservation acritical opportunities. firststep. contributions are theall-important State Together, stateagencies are gaining more totheirrespective dollars economies through increased outdoor recreation, andhunting tourism tion inCanada animpressive for return on investment. Results deliver more birds toU.S. statesand times, uptofour statedollars matches produc-often andwaterfowl maximizinghabitatconservation funding through American Wetlands theNorth Act. Conservation This uniquefundingstructure UnlimitedintheUnited States,Ducks withCanadian thenleveraged andfederal contributions ofthesuccess story. part thesefundsisasignificant Leveraging State fundingisfirstmatched by AFWA goals. Funds through thesaleofhuntinglicenses. are generatedprimarily 53 years ago. Inaddition, many stateshave met, orhave committed tomeeting, theirindividual This year’s totalisthemostfunding $4-million received toCanada since statesfirstbegan contributing populations longabundant waterfowl term. isseeingstrong DUC andsteady growth toward thegoal. projects inCanada.up to$10million peryear toconservation toensuring It’s ambitiousbutcritical Agencies (AFWA)Wildlife Fish andThe Association of contribute hasa for statestocollectively goal continental scale. oninvestment a is acommitment tothebigpicture—one conservation thatdelivers waterfowl DUC. USDwith $4million agencies invested nearly fish andwildlife Thiskindofinternational More U.S. statesare investing before. habitatsthanever inCanadian waterfowl year, Last 41state-run habitatconservation U.S. supportfor Canadian stateagenciesincrease Gaining ground onabiggoal a continentalscale. deliver waterfowl on conservation from stateagencieshelps Funding

©iStock/ fusaromike ©DUC/Chris Benson than $3.8 million USD since it first began sending funds north in1985. than $3.8million USDsince itfirstbegansendingfunds north Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s cumulative investment inCanadian habitat to more birdmigratory hunters inthestate are required to purchase. The commitment the brings the lasttwo years. Funding Bird comes Game Stamps, from thesaleofMigratory whichall contributions to Canadian habitat by investing $725,000USDwithDUCover thecourse of a In Texas-sized thestate’s show ofsupport, Parks and Wildlife setarecord Department for Texas andWildlife Department Parks Partner spotlight The NorthAmericanWetlands • TheNorthAmericanWaterfowl • programs andlegislation: powerful andlong-standinginternational conservation achievements are derived from in many jurisdictions.Ourmostsignificant DUC’s efforts require supportfrompartners conservation. Together we are acontinentalforce for colleagues intheUnited States andMexico. a responsibility we share withconservation this habitatremains healthy andabundantis boundaries—all theyseeishabitat.Ensuring waterfowl don’t recognize borders orpolitical We take ourcuesfromthebirds. Migrating Management Plan. support theNorthAmericanWaterfowl sharing program thatprovides fundsto Conservation Act isaU.S. federal cost- and othermigratory birds. associated habitatscriticaltowaterfowl the long-term protection ofwetlands and agreement thatprovides astrategy for Management Planisaninternational Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201831 32 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 nature. didtoenjoy asthey from andlearn has thesameopportunities parents andgrandparents looking toensure thenextgeneration landowners whowant tosafeguard place. aspecialnatural They’re environmentconcerned aboutourchanging andlong-time hunters, hikers, photographers and cottage goers. They’re citizens through theirestates.leaving gifts enthusiasts,They’re wildlife hasmoreDUC than350Feather memberswhoare Society examples ofgivingfrom theheart. glances.shifting are simpleandpowerful gifts Their legacy conversationuncomfortable marked by hushedvoices and your affairsinorder doesn’t have an tobecomplicated—or thatmeanthemosttoyou.causes And theprocess ofgetting your golden years thepeopleand tobeginmakingplansfor have tobewealthy toleave alegacy. You don’t have tobein aboutestateplanning. commondispelling myths You don’t DUC’s growing numberofFeather membersare Society DUC Feather Societymembers show how somethingtoeveryone estateplanningmeans Legacy giftsfrom theheart PHILANTHROPIC GIVING

into thefuture. ensure contributions will DUC’sthese meaningful successwell value ofDUC’s now exceeding Feather $35million, gifts Society specialpeople,about honouring places andtraditions. the With ismuch more thanafinancialdecision.Making aplannedgift It’s they’re supporting. mission andtheconservation andconnect withDUC their gift lifetime. Here, individualsandfamilieswitnesstheimpact of thatdonors their provide during isaplannedgift A livinglegacy and taxes are paid, aswell aslanddonations andliving legacies. where apercentage oncebills oftheestateisdonated all toDUC tax savings. bequests, residuary include popularchoices Some significant many takemany offer forms—and can gifts Planned volunteers. are madeby staffand of DUC’s gifts planned More than45percent

©DUC/Aquila Samson runs throughout theorganization. culture ofarich ofgiving thatcommitment ispart from staff and volunteers likeChelsea.Herpersonal More than45percent ofDUC’s come planned gifts DUCcommunicationsManz, specialist, Saskatchewan andnatureconservation preservation.” -Chelsea ofwatergenerations to understandtheimportance because Ibelieve inourmissionandIwant ourfuture a life insurance planto makeawillbequestto DUC inthebushes. Ichosetosloughs orbuildingforts use arememories ofmeandmy on rafting friends “I grew uponagrain ofmy Some farm. fondest Manz Chelsea Partner spotlight Affinity partners provide unique • Foundationssupportconservationand • Environmentally focusedcorporations • Individualdonors make personal gifts • supporters whoare makingadifference. and sizes, unitingadiverse collectionof Philanthropic givingcomesinallshapes is transforming thefuture. generosity inspires others, andtheircharity DUC donors are apassionate group.Their support conservation. business offerings tocustomers that communities. the benefitsitprovides topeopleand give backtonatural areas. that reflect theirlifestyle andinterests. Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201833 34 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 “ DUC National Volunteer oftheYearDUC National JohnStewart, and that’s notwork” I believe inwhatI’m doing, GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING

passionate, and generous. driven represent All atitsfinest. volunteerism mile. whogo theextra and thankvolunteers likeJohn Stewart are All excellence, 80years celebrates ofconservation As DUC we congratulate personal commitment from volunteers isinvaluable. raffles. andkayaks DUC for itemslikecanoes crafted of This kind talents by buildinghundreds ofnest boxes aswell asuniquehand- DUC’sfinds timetomanage sealedbidauctions. Healsoshares his year he’sand every exceeded it. fundraiser, Ontopofbeingaskilled he $10,000indonations— himselftoraise challenges year Stewart Every DUC’s committee in Thunder Bay, Ont.for thepastnine years. Stewart, extraordinaire, afundraiser who’s with beenvolunteering choice. thismilestoneThe honour during year wasawarded toJohn Volunteer ofthe Year” from nominees across Canada. It’s atough year,Every namesone outstandingvolunteer DUC asits “National talented individualswhostandbesideusincommunities across Canada. Year ofthe Volunteer.” We’re proud themore torecognize than5,600 success, as 2018andour80thanniversary “The proclaimed DUC and roleIn appreciation volunteers play ofthecritical inourhistory ago, mission today. ourconservation andcontinue driving isintheirnature.Giving back Volunteers 80 years gave wingstoDUC milestone year Ontario’s tophonours JohnStewart earns in dedicated DUCvolunteers Celebrating eightdecadesof is stillasstrong asever. waterfowl andthepeople withwhomheloved to share them we’re honoured to share Glen’s story. passion for His wetlands, prairie landscape. As DUCcelebrates its80thanniversary, as theorganization worked to putwater backontheparched to DUC. wereThese Keemanreports vitalto DUC’s days, early around hishomenearStirling, back Alta. and sendhisreports original “Keeman” volunteers. He’d thelandandwildlife survey DUC supporter. asoneofDUC’s Beginning in1939,Glenserved andardent conservationist GlenMichelson—historian, Meet Glen Michelson:AnoriginalDUCvolunteer Partner spotlight across Canada. across Canada. 5,600 volunteers DUC hasmore than

©DUC/Leigh Patterson Supporters take advantageofspecialoffers • Nature lovers andartcollectors bidon • Friendsandneighbours attend DUC • Volunteers bandtogethertoraise fundsfor • ways togetinvolved: effort andpassion. DUCoffers many rewarding Grassroots fundraising isequalpartscreativity, environment intoaction. and innovation— puttheirpassion forthe people who—withdedication,determination DUC isastoryaboutpeople. It’s about businesses partneringwithDUC. and discountswithconservation-minded DUC’s sealedbidauction. high-quality artworkavailable through support ofagreat cause. fundraising events toenjoyagoodtimein wetland conservationintheircommunities. Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201835 36 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 funding from Habitat Conservation funding from Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, North Thanks tothe Andersen’s generous donation ofland, along with ensure thisspecialplace remains justasnature intended. altered insome shapeorform. The Andersens approached DUC to like itexist. Mostwetlands intheprovince have, over time, been places around knowing thatfew BabineLake purchased property came from the Andersen family.The gift Twenty years ago, they gift.it wasatrue insects. and acquired DUC apieceofthishabitat, When amphibians waterfowl,for waterbirds, salmon andahostofothermammals, wetland habitatshouldbe:what pristine safe-haven atranquil shore. Accessible by only planeorboat, it’s alivingpicture of boasts anincredible unspoiled wetland along itssoutheastern isarare gem.Babine Lake The province’s largest freshwater lake DUC acquires natural unspoiled Lake wetlandalongBabine Safeguarding arare gem BRITISH COLUMBIA safeguarded generations for tocome. from thisrare gem generous isensuring is Support partners bear,like thegrizzly andpaintedturtle. bittern American Nechako Regional District, species also provides at-risk habitatfor shoveler. The area encompassing this wetland, known astheBulkley- wigeon, mallard, blue-winged teal, cinnamon teal, andnorthern swan, thetrumpeter and otherbirds including wood duck, American The wetland isabirder’s paradise. waterfowl migrating Itsupports 320acres (129hectares) wetland ofuntouched habitat. conserved Service, andtheProvince DUC Columbia and ofBritish Wildlife American Wetlands Act, Conservation Fish andtheUnitedStates

©DUC Shawn Andersen care ofland. Part ofthat ishaving wildlife runningaround onit.” – hewas taught by hisfather—that dadtaught“My me—and you take for waterfowl andotherwildlife.remains sanctuary apristine saw withDUC,theyare it itsnatural ensuring value. partnering By Babine Lakefor almost20years. They bought thelandbecausethey Shawn have around Andersen andhisfather Sivert owned property The Andersen family Partner spotlight and otherwildlife. haven for waterfowl, waterbirds, salmon isasafe- Lake The wetlandaround Babine Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201837 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (3,263,954 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED (181,743 HECTARES) (181,743 HABITAT PROJECTS (2,155 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED 8,065,407 VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 449,097 10,768 5,325 846 978 978 614

©DUC 38 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 ecosystem aroundecosystem it. This improvedcattle’s the access tofresh water The McKnights DUC to worked with restore thehabitatand the gate.came totheir farm DUC changedThis when waslimited. theirlivestock for forage Quality Foxtail barley, species, anundesirable wastakingover native grasses. water. Butwithoutconsistent water, unproductive. thelandbecame Previous owners spill thewetland had irrigation drained tocollect provided little valuetotheiroperation.the McKnight’s property For 37years, thatsurrounded grassland wetland adrained on are essentialtoboth. andfresh grass their herd. waterfor essential toquality Wetlands nearDuchess,who operate Alta., you tell will thatwetlands are aside,Ducks needwetlands. cattle BobandJudyMcKnight, Ranchers Fork Hornproject delivers andforage fresh water Wetland restoration winsatthefarm gate ALBERTA Resiliency andRestoration Program.Resiliency ofAlberta’s ofthe Government pleted by aspart DUC Watershed Known astheFork project, Horn thisrestoration work wascom- land were grazing. andcattle retained nestingwaterfowl for were restored and1,436acres (581hectares) ofhighquality grass- Upon completion, 258acres (104hectares) wetlands ofdrained on. couldgraze mixthatthecattle tame forage The uplandarea surrounding the wetland was re-seeded usinga torestore thewetland waterlevel.with rock spillways toitsnatural structure the wetland stateanddesignedanearthen initsnatural and forage. photos, Using historical thelayout determined DUC of

©Darwin Chambers water andgrass to graze on.” McKnight –Bob situation immensely. cattle now My have access to fresh drinking andourwater hasenhanced DUCproject ourproperty “The wetland restored. management oftheirlandandare compensated acre for of every Wetland Lease Restoration program. They retain ownership and inDUC’s participated Landowners andJudyMcKnight Bob Bob andJudyMcKnight Partner spotlight Watershed Resiliency &Restoration Program. bysupported theGovernment ofAlberta’s The Fork Hornwetlandrestoration project was Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201839 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (5,591,072 HECTARES) (948,806 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (14,094 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED 13,815,840 2,344,551 VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 34,826 15,680 4,399 2,271 1,216

©DUC/Brian Wolitski 40 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 SASKATCHEWAN tradition into a lasting conservation legacy.tradition intoalastingconservation DUC, the Youngsfamily’s their bebroken are never thattheland will guaranteeing up—transforming to theirhearts. itis a 100-year-old tradition holdclose they conserving By working in partnership with generation of Jason is thefourth Young here. toranch farmers The landistheir family’s refuge, and of otherwaterfowl. cranes, habitat for provide critical theendangered whoopingcrane, including aswell aslarge numbers completed. hasever easementsDUC of thelargest conservation Wetlands on the Young property thatprotectswith DUC 3,100acres (1,255hectares) ofthisrare habitatinperpetuity. natural It’s one Jason Young, alongside hisfatherGreg andtheirfamilies, easement conservation signedanhistoric Few places likeitexist. That’s why those whoknow andlove itare it ensuring remains intactforever. stretches andhundreds wadegrass toward cranes inadjacent ofsandhill shallow wetlands. thehorizon A littlemore thanninekilometres southeastof Viscount, Sask. isaspecialpieceofland. Native prairie family’s keeps easement Historic conservation intact landandlegacy Forever Young

©Dean Davenport U.S. and Canada. habitat withinthePrairie important Potholeconserve Region ofthe Campbell Legacy,in theHazard Conservation K. whichaimsto easement inHazard’sconservation is thefirstproject memory. It his lastvisit, Hazard was 86years old. DUCisdedicating the Young more thanto hunt onthe Young fall. At every thetimeof property States from icon wholoved 1986-87.Hewas aconservation nothing time DUCdirector andpresident Unlimited ofDucks intheUnited another person’s Hazard Campbell. heart: Campbell was along- Wetlands onthe Young family’s heldaspecialplace in property Campbell Hazard Partner spotlight spans 3,100 acres (1,255hectares). The Young easement conservation Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201841 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (3,223,814 HECTARES) (696,042 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (18,509 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED VOLUNTEERS 7,966,219 SUPPORTERS 1,719,957 SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 45,737 12,740 4,432 3,047 692 42 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 opportunities. ayear, Within agreement signedaconservation they property, theoutdoorsmen were excited tohearaboutconservation Fouillard purchased they the after andClintJohnston shortly reached DUC outtolandowners Omer,When Rene, andArmand partners. ofotherhabitatprojects managed bydozens conservation fellow project.conservation Littered withpotholewetlands, itconnects oftheseunbroken landsisDUC’sIn themiddle Fouillard Johnston together. when outdoorenthusiasts, groups work agriculture andconservation intheprovince’slife southwest. It’s anexampleofwhathappens andotherwild- projects anexpansive haven waterfowl toform for andparkland. ofnativelarge prairie blocks Itconnects withother Lake,Just southofShoal Man. with project rich isaconservation ofnative prairie linksmosaic easement Conservation A fundamentalpieceofthepuzzle MANITOBA habitat. containprotected out of288quartersections land.Within72of protected square miles,108 area avast tocreate projects other conservation The Fouillard links Johnstonproject strategically prairie. success on Manitoba’sThese are theingredientsfor conservation agreements.Flexible Strong partnerships. landowners. Supportive the year. of part dry wetlands seedingofsmall thatareallows for naturally the grassland, while crops grow lands. inarable The agreement also totheprevious owner whocontinues tofarm.part Cattlegraze livelihoods.supports The and Fouillardsrent hunt on theproperty and moosealsofrequent thearea. The landalsobenefitspeopleand are observed. commonly Jackrabbits, foxes, muskrats, beavers, deer one visit alone,counted during andanother19different bird species with wildlife.rich is The property species wereTen waterfowl 602 uplandacres (244hectares). that protects 214wetlands thatcover 426acres (172hectares), plus restoration. MHHC complements eachother. We inwetland are closepartners maintain andenhance natural habitat. The work ofDUCand that shares DUC’s commitment withlandowners to to working easement. MHHCis anon-profitconservation Crown corporation radiuswithin aneight-kilometer ofthe Fouillard Johnston 73square kilometres— manage 87habitat quarters—nearly project jointly CorporationDUC andtheManitobaHabitat Heritage (MHHC) HeritageCorporation Habitat Manitoba Partner spotlight with landowners ontheFouillard easement. Johnstonconservation Scott Henowitch, programs DUCconservation closely worked specialist, Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 201843 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 ACRES INFLUENCED (275,606 HECTARES) (818,507 HECTARES) HABITAT PROJECTS (4,279 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED 2,022,574 VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 681,038 10,573 13,143 3,203 1,503 761 44 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 ONTARIO iconic water body is getting cleaner andhealthier.iconic waterbodyisgetting cleaner green withgreen Erie’sFighting in Lake positive results—and watershedisyielding the future ofthe fromlands thatcapture runoff thesurrounding landscape. watershed. Erie existing wetlands intheLake projects Most of thenew are wetlands small on private power ofwetlands towork. thepastyear, Over wetlands andrestored 75new constructed 17 DUC governments, andOntario the federal toputthe organizations landowners andconservation private Erie Watershed establishedLake ofthe newly ispart DUC Wetlands Initiative, andisworking with building withnature instead ofconcrete. nutrients, stoppingthemfrom flowing downstream intothe lake. Thisis green infrastructure.It’s about in much thesameway awatertreatment plantwould. That’s waterandtrap wetlands collect because Erie’sIn Lake case, wetlands on thesurrounding helpfilterexcess nutrients algae-causing landscape hope. Great Lake. green wetland It’s projects infrastructure—and called ledby are fresh DUC delivering environmental solutions thatusethepower ofnature inthesouthernmost toimprove waterquality more isturning andmore Erie peoplegreen.Lake Policy makersandcommunity leaders are seeking Erie’sLake qualitygetsfresh hope water long-threatened Fighting green withgreen

©Steven Kriemadis

©DUC Erie watershed. restored 17existing wetlandsintheLake 75DUC constructed new wetlandsand and experiences related to water issues inLakeErie. quality well aseight First Nations communities whoshared theirknowledge benefited from as authorities collaborations withlocal conservation Ontario’s ofNatural Resources andForestry. Ministry DUCalso Water and Wastewater Fund and$650,000inmatching fundsfrom $650,000 infederal infrastructure fundingthrough theClean intheLakeErie of nutrient reduction Watershed. This included DUC received $1.3millionfor wetland restoration insupport Government andgrassroots support Partner spotlight Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201845 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (395,369 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED (413,881 HECTARES) HABITAT PROJECTS (2,395 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED VOLUNTEERS 1,022,723 SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 976,979 18,119 5,919 1,656 3,180 1,073 46 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 habitat intheprovince remains constant, orincreases. tion andrestoration. Resultsensure thattheamount of wetland throughdue toeconomic bereclaimed mitiga- development will within thelegislation. requiresThis principle thatany wetlands lost waterways, anall-important andenshrines “no netloss” principle bly. protection provincial all wetlands for and Itprovides statutory of water, National Assem- by waspassedunanimously theQuebec 132,Bill of wetlands andbodies anAct respecting theconservation otherprovinces suit.challenge tofollow hopeswill amove DUC and wetland habitatconservation—and protects wetlands. ofwildlife It’s point inthehistory aturning thefirstprovince inCanada became toenact alawthat Quebec leadershipIn ashow and courage, ofpolitical of theGovernment makeshistorybyGovernment ofQuebec passing groundbreaking Act Why conserve wetlands? Becauseit’s thelaw. QUEBEC important. That’s why it’s thelaw. changed theconversation inthiscountry. wetlands is Conserving be theultimatetest, remains butDUC optimistic. has Quebec The right direction.Act isabigstepinthe Implementation will diversity,change.climate aswell asfightingand adapting to safeguarding water resources,This includes maintaining biological fundamental roles wetlands play inprotecting theenvironment. changes demonstratesthatmore andmore peopleunderstandthe and water. thesemajorlegislative for support Undividedpolitical ignore environment ourchanging orthehealthofourwetlands Quebec are floods insomeadded proof can’t that regionswe of losses have reached 80percentintheSt. Lawrence Valley. Recent The Act couldnothave come atabettertime, wetland ashistorical

bassins versants desmilieuxnaturels and Réseau duQuébec; protégés. l’environnement Regroupement duQuébec; desOrganismes de Nature Regroupement Québec; national desConseils régionaux de organizations included:Centre québécois dudroit del’environnement; related to mitigation—and lobbiedfor theirinclusion.Participating developed ashared visionfor keyelements ofthelaw—particularly made upofleadingNGOsfrom across theprovince. The group group ofaworking Prior ofBill132,DUCwas to part theenactment Wetlands workinggroup Partner spotlight ©Cathy Simard Quebec. Quebec. wetland managementacross New willimprove legislation Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201847 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (17,149,442 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (29,409 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED (755 HECTARES) 42,377,193 VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 72,672 3,766 1,866 258 332 212 48 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 NEW BRUNSWICK is conserved for wildlife, for productiveis conserved stays andtheircattle. grassland farmers for and thathigh-quality habitat natural ensureDUC will between the Association thatimportant and The uniquepartnership valuable. of Sackville, N.B. Available landinthearea islimited, makesthecommunity pasture which extremely on the1,000-acre theircattle (404.7-hectare) graze pasture, farmers Seven justoutside islocated which kilometres fencing. ofnew create access wetlands tofresh water, small togive cattle grazing drinking and aswell asbuildacorral easy. Inexchange thebog, for would helptheAssociation DUC improve productive land, agricultural Community Pasture Association offthebog, aboutrestoring andfencing was thedecision topartner Adam Campbell,When inAtlantic Canada, DUC’s delivery head ofconservation approached the avoid thebog orsinkdeepinthewet soil. grassland.out oftheprairie-flat For farmers, the wetland iswastedspace: intheareacattle grazing fromeven thefaredges ofthefield. Miniature larchever-so-slightly treesrises stand on amound that The 100-acre ofthe (40.5-hectare) boginthemiddle Community Tantramar Pasture iseasy tospot Pasture Exchanging agricultural andenvironmental benefitsat Tantramar Community Trading spaces for wildlife andgoodfor farmers. Improving wetlandhabitatisgood

©DUC/Stacey Dunn (243 hectares) of restored(243 hectares) orinfluenced habitat. DUC’s withtheAssociation hasresulted partnership in600acres wetlands. It’s awin-win for and thelandscape. farmers Overall, intoits missionby mostlyidlefarmland turning productive dedication to environmental stewardship ishelpingDUCachieve and Tantramar Community Pasture Association. The Association’s between DUC possible withouttheequallyuniquepartnership This uniquewetland restoration wouldn’t project have been Tantramar Community Pasture Association Partner spotlight Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201849 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (380,508 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (21,829 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED (288 HECTARES) VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 940,255 53,941 2,510 443 712 612 261

©DUC 50 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 NOVA SCOTIA Rebuild efforts continue in National Wildlife Area Rebuild efforts continuein Protecting Wallace BayMarsh pieceby protecting thisnational, treasure. natural nesting waterfowl, andgreen-wing ducks teal. black including isproud DUC toplay arole in walkthedike-toptrail.regularly Habitathere refuge and alsoprovides migrant animportant for athand whileon species. thelookout theirfavourite Birders for keeptheirbinocularsclose Hikers Wallace Bay wildlife. Marsh isahaven thecommunity—and for for thelandscape. Naturalists scan of freshwater marsh. past year, rebuilt DUC more than a kilometre ofdikeandprotected more than90acres (37hectares) them pieceby piece, years for tocome. theexpanseofwetland would ensuring beconserved the Over themarsh’sWhen years toerode ago, afew dikesstarted original aplantorebuild developed DUC DUC’s tomaintain efforts Wallace Bay Marshcontinue. thatitsfreshwater wetlands were restored. Service withtheCanadian partnered DUC Wildlife Today, this way. for agriculture, anddiked drained The area waspreviously anditwasn’t untilthe1970swhen Shore, are more than445acres (180hectares) green ofsprawling marshland. Butitdidn’t look always Nestled intothecrook of Wallace Bay, Area on Nova Scotia’s inaNational Wildlife Northumberland at Wallace Bay. 90 acres (37 hectares) offreshwater marsh kilometre more ofdikeandprotected than thepastyear,Over DUCrebuilt more thana and protecting critical wetlandand protecting critical ecosystems for generations to come. National Wildlife Areas across thecountry. Together, we’re restoring with theCanadian Wildlife to on16 manageprojects Service as well Pond. andSand asChignecto Nationally, DUChaspartnered managed by theCanadian Wildlife Service. This includes Wallace Bay wetland restoration onthree projects National Wildlife Areas and wildlife across thecountry. Nova In Scotia, DUChasnine lands for waterfowl important committed topartners, conserving The federal Canadian Wildlife isoneofDUC’s Service strongest Wildlife Service Canadian Partner spotlight Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201851 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (390,499 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (16,345 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED (125 HECTARES) VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 964,945 40,390 3,315 1,677 308 714 210 52 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 contributing totheecosystem’scontributing health. overall entera they When In addition theirlifecycle, tofulfilling fishthatenterthemarsh are salt watertothemarsh’s freshwater more effectively. from offishmigrate theocean’s thathelpsawider variety installed trout. andsmall like alewife pool-and-weir ladder A new hasbeen at Doc’s Marsh, wasfailingtopassweaker-swimming which fish replaced water-controlDUC theoriginal andfish-ladder structure funding from theNationalWith Wetland Fund, Conservation spawn. to ofspecieson theirjourney avariety thatsupports infrastructure the oceanandintoDoc’s Marshnow have afinupthankstonew upstream isastoughitsounds.Swimming from migrating Fish New infrastructure at Doc’s migrate helpsspecies Marsh upstream Giving fishafinup PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND looking toenjoy some ofthe province’s habitat. best natural riders,horseback hikers, hunters bird-watchers andwaterfowl speciesofowls.and various It’s anglers, also apopularsitefor woodis ahotspotfor ducks, green-wing teal, ducks, black eagles on endoftheprovince,forested theeastern landscape Doc’s Marsh it’s thelargest still restored wetland on theIsland. Nestled intoa in theAtlantic provinces. At more than400acres (160hectares), Doc’s Marshwasone ofthefirst wetland projects restored DUC by are supporting.tion efforts die. thatDUC’s ofanincredible cycle It’s natural conserva- part all This release occurswhenfishdefecate, cases, spawnandin some to as “marine nutrients” derived thesoilandvegetation. thatenrich freshwater area likeDoc’s Marsh, release they whatscientistsrefer eoeafter before the province. manages 22restored wetland on13 projects Wildlife Areas Management across withDUC onwetland since projects 1971.DUCnow areas. hasbeenpartnering It Environment, theprovince’s isdedicated to conserving wetlands andnatural PEI’s ofLand, Department Communities, ofthe and fish andwildlife division,part Prince Edward IslandFish andWildlife Division Partner spotlight the ocean tothemarsh.the ocean ofspawningladder tohelpawidevariety fishpassfrom This rebuild atDoc’s anew installed Marsh pool-and-weir Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 201853 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (32,903 HECTARES) (5,633 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED (245 HECTARES) VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 81,306 13,919 1,134 606 587 375 57 54 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR the Stewardship of Municipalities conservation program. ofMunicipalities conservation the Stewardship Lundigran’s ofSt. of theCity Marshispart John’s Agreement with MunicipalHabitatStewardship retention.storm-water Virginia River area system,It’s waterthat flows for intothe alsoacatchment role in acritical andplays vices. andmarshbird Many waterfowl speciesusethewetland feeding, habitatfor shelterandbreeding. of nature areabeautiful pocket inanurban that’s providing residents withessential environmental ser- Although Lundigran’s Marshissurrounded by commercial activity, andindustrial itisthriving. It’s a habitat.better connect themtothisimportant offices andbuildingsborder themarsh, cleanupsandtheplantingofnative speciesto toassistwith restoration work wetland. andmonitoring atthelocal They’re alsoengagingbusiness owners, whose The watershedgroup received through agrant the National Wetland Conservation Fund tocomplete Avalonwith Northeast Atlantic CoastalAction Program (ACAP) tochange that. of theAvalon region’s birding hotspots. isworking DUC withagroup staff and ofdevoted volunteers rest ofthecity. Many residents don’t thelushwetland there, realize iseven mindthefact never it’s one ofaSt. dabinthemiddle Smack John’s park, industrial Lundigran’s away from Marshsitstucked the Connecting St.John’s residents to Lundigran’s Marsh Wetland conservationwhere you leastexpect it conserving a critical piece acritical ofSt. John’sconserving for natural future history generations to enjoy. between thewetland andthebusinesses. of themarshto theboundary soften Together, we’re as well asdetailedwetland habitat alsoplants assessments. native It speciesalongtheedges conservation program ofSt. andtheCity John’s bird to monitoring, conduct andwater-quality AvalonNortheast ACAP hasbeencollaborating withDUC,theStewardship of Municipalities AvalonNortheast ACAP Partner spotlight is athrivingurbanwetland. Marsh industrial activity, Lundigran’s bySurrounded commercial and Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 201855 LANDOWNER PARTNERS ACRES SECURED INFY18 (5,800,153 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED HABITAT PROJECTS (3,907 HECTARES) ACRES SECURED 14,332,489 (12 HECTARES) VOLUNTEERS SUPPORTERS SINCE 1938 SINCE 1938 ACAP 9,655 2,068 AVALON NORT 266 30 46 26 HEAST 56 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 Seismic lines in the boreal forest.Seismic linesintheboreal BOREAL REGION North—for waterfowl,North—for andpeople. wildlife mapping projectThe collaborative that’s isanimpressive poisedtoshapethefuture effort of Canada’s industry.for protected for areas initiatives,around how tomanage theirterritory recreation, andsustainablelanduse pleted,First Nations makedecisions andhelpAkaitcho DUC’s efforts inform will they conservation sance flights, traditional knowledge and cutting-edge mappingsoftware. ofthelandscape Oncecom are landscape being created images, usingsatellite-generated northern Maps ofthesprawling reconnais comes in. about the diversity,learn here. ofhabitatfound andtypes density That’s where themappingproject wildlife, caribou. likethethreatened woodland in The arearich wetlands, is butthere’s still to much NationsNéné communities. ishome DeneFirst tofour and share withwaterfowl They thislandscape andextendingbeyond on halfofGreat Lake theNunavut theeastern Slave border,Located Akaitcho communities—andfuture conservation. northern for Néné, NWT. Blendingscience with traditional knowledge, themappingproject helpdefinethe will 8 Tribal Councilare mapping77million acres (31million hectares) ofboreal wetlands inAkaitcho It’s one ofthelargest, mostinnovative projects ofitskind. Together, andtheAkaitcho DUC Treaty Indigenousland-useplanningintheNorth Supporting Mapping for thefuture - - relationship withland. There’s commonalities there.” -Steven Nitah Unlimited“Ducks andits mandate are consistent withthe Dene First Nation chiefandcurrent leadnegotiator for hispeople. Council was brokered by Steven aformer Lutsel Nitah, K’e Dene between DUCandtheAkaitcho The partnership Treaty 8 Tribal TreatyAkaitcho 8Tribal Council Partner spotlight (31 millionhectares) wetlands. ofboreal Council are mapping77millionacres TreatyDUC andtheAkaitcho 8Tribal Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 201857 boreal region provinces andterritories withinthe *Statistics includeacres from all (56,343,363 HECTARES) (1,467,990 HECTARES) ACRES INFLUENCED ACRES INFLUENCED 139,227,482 3,627,482 SINCE 1938 IN FY18 58 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND LEADERSHIP Chief Executive Officer Chief Guyn Karla Secretary David McCoy Treasurer Patrick O’Connor Vice-President Harris Kevin President David C. Blom theBoard of Chairman James E. Couch Officers Roger d’Eschambault Quebec WeeksGregory Noble Leslie Holst Philip DownJackie Tom Davidson, Jr. Ontario James A. “Jim” Richardson Patrick O’Connor McFaddenKevin Kozminski Robert Guyn Karla Manitoba James McHattie, Leverick Bryan John Eagle James E. Couch Saskatchewan Travis G. Peckham David McCoy David C. Blom Alberta G.Robert Clark ColumbiaBritish Nancy Wilkin Nancy Greg Sawchuck Maher Ray Kessler Winifred Julius DeBaar

W FRCPC, AGAF

W W

W Mike Woodward John Tomke Salmon Gary Clay Rogers Joseph Nicosia McMillin Mickey Joseph G. Mazon Lewis Monty James Konkel Rogers Hoyt, Jr. S.Robert Hester, Jr. Grady Hartzog, Jr. Harris Jerry Douglas T.Federighi D’Alonzo Bill Paul R. Bonderson, Jr. American Graham Shawn Mac Dunfield New Brunswick Grenville Jones Scotia Nova G. TodWright Tom Worden G. TurnbullWilliam W.Duncan Sinclair George C. Reifel John R. Messer John D. McDiarmid M.Duncan Jessiman L.Arthur Irving H.Jack Hole John C. Eaton C. Neil Downey Peter D. Carton Mel F. Belich, Q.C. Honorary Kevin Harris Kevin

W W

† As of March 31, of As 2018 † W Chief Financial Officer Financial Chief Sullivan Marcy andMarketingCommunications National Director Nigel Simms People OperationsChief Linda Monforton FundraisingChief Officer Kim Jasper Operations Director National Conservation David Howerter and Counsel Executive Corporate Secretary Goodwin Gary Executive Officer Chief Guyn Karla Leadership team: D. Morrison Stewart Emeritus Vice-President Executive D.John Woodward Fred Wagman Terry Sparks M.Mauri Rutherford Rivard,Gilles Q.C. Roland E. Rivalin, Q.C. G. DavidRichardson H.Barry Martin James D. MacDonald W. Lewis Bruce H. LeBourveau, Graham FCA D. GavinKoyl KennyR. Timothy Ronald J. Hicks Ross E. Gage Hugh D. Fairn Campbell Duncan Richard A.N. Bonnycastle Directors Emeriti

Deceased ProvincialSenior Director

Regina, SK–1955-56 M.Chief Justice William † Martin Winnipeg, MB–1954 Gordon E. Konantz † Edmonton, AB–1952-53 Hancock, o.b.e. † Colonel W.F.W. Yorkton, SK–1950-51 Judge L.T. McKim† Winnipeg, MB–1948-49 Dr. Walter F. † Tisdale Regina, SK–1947 G.William Ross† Mr.Honorable Justice Ottawa, ON–1945-46 S.S. Holden† Calgary, AB–1943-44 Approve manage- thebudget andtherisk • Provide tostaff, support where appropri- • Hire, establishobjectives andmonitor the • Approve thevalues, mission andvision, • Role oftheBoard C.William Fisher, Calgary, AB–1940-42 O. † Spencer Leigh Regina, SK–1938-39 G.William Ross† Mr.Honorable Justice PresidentsPast ment approach of DUC. andpolicy. infundraising particularly ate, theobjectives toachieve of DUC— succession planning. oftheCEOandprovide for performance cies ofDUC. considerations and governing poli- ethical as well asthebroad long-term objectives,

k.c. †

W. KennethMartin, Regina, SK–1965 A.Robert † Kramer Regina, SK–1963-64 Rothesay, NB–1977-78 Hugh H. Mackay † Winnipeg, MB–1975-76 M.Duncan Jessiman Winnipeg, MB–1973-74 O.A.Roderick Hunter† Vancouver, BC–1971-72 A.Robert † White Victoria, BC –1969-70 M.Lorne Cameron † Regina, SK–1968 W. KennethMartin, Vancouver, BC–1961-62 Fred S. Auger † Winnipeg, MB–1957-60 Richard H.G. Bonnycastle † W. KennethMartin, Winnipeg, MB–1967 Festus S. † Sharpe Regina, SK–1966 Monitor management’s compliance with • Facilitate theoperations oftheboard • Recruit, orient, andmotivate develop • ofDUC, Monitor theperformance aswell • legislative and fiduciary requirements. legislative andfiduciary through appropriate governance processes. itsobjectives. achieve helping DUC directors of whoare andcapable willing directors, officersandsenior provincial broad long-term objectives. ourvision,forces inachieving mission and as itsmanagement, committees andtask d.d.s. d.d.s. d.d.s.

† † † Burlington, ON–1999-2000 G. TodWright Vancouver, BC–1996-98 George C. Reifel Calgary, AB–1994-95 G. TurnbullWilliam Winnipeg, MB–1992-93 Claude H. † Wilson Toronto, ON–1990-91 John C. Eaton Aylmer, ON–1988-89 W.Duncan Sinclair, John,Saint NB–1986-87 L.Arthur Irving Winnipeg, MB –1984-85 Honorable W. John McKeag† Saskatoon, SK–1982-83 H.Herbert Cowburn, Victoria, BC–1981 † G. Dunn Fitzpatrick Winnipeg, MB –1980 Douglas C. Groff † Vancouver, BC–1979 John D. McDiarmid

m.d.

d.d.s.

Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201859 † Audit Committee • Nominating Committee • Personnel Policy Committee • Committee Governance • &RiskCommittee Finance • Development Committee • • • Executive Committee • Committees Board James E. Couch Riverview, NB–2013-15 Mac Dunfield Courtice, ON–2011-13 Tom Worden Gunn, AB–2009-11 H.Jack Hole Red Deer, AB–2007-09 C. Neil Downey Regina, SK–2005-07 Peter D. Carton Tisdale, SK–2003-04 John R. Messer Calgary, AB–2001-02 Mel F. Belich, 2015-17 Park,R.M. Corman of SK– Membership & Revenue CommitteeMembership &Revenue Programs CommitteeConservation

q.c.

60 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW • • • • • • • • • • • • • strength andsustainability. accomplishments Key include: in the2018fiscal year, withacontinuedfocus on financial results excellent achieved UnlimitedCanada (DUC) Ducks Message from theChiefFinancialOfficer Service, state grants and Ducks Unlimited,Service, andDucks stategrants Inc. fromContinued support theU.S. and Wildlife Fish establishedNature Fund;newly and the National Wetland Fund, Conservation andthe Program, theNatural Areas Conservation including from government programs Continued support federal mitigation measures; andRestoration Program offlood Resiliency in support the in2016for Watershed ofAlberta Government awarded on delivering thegrant by the Substantially BankofCommerce;Imperial provided by theAlberta Treasury andCanadian Branch Program, by leveraged on $8.1million loans draws Conservation Land oftheRevolving hectares) aspart easementsplaced on 5,617acres (2,273 Conservation lands (2017-$16.6million); invested$14.3 million andconservation inrevolving Act funds; Conservation tothesecurementWetland American ofNorth critical Unlimited, fromContinued support Ducks Inc. thatis campaign; oftheongoing,part continent-wide goal toexceed as fundraising our$500-million Pushing community; of ourconservation More than126,000peoplewhoare takingaction aspart hectares);or 3.8million (2017–9.3million acres influenced across thecountry 5.3 million acres hectares) (2.1million secured and $101 million inrevenue (2017-107.9million); project;transformation ofthesecondThe launch phase ofabusinesssystem conservation; moreHabitat gainsthatare dedicating acres to ofgenerousthe support donors andpartners; Fundraising awards andgrant achievements thanks to Rescue Our WetlandsOur Rescue

DUC iscommitted tooutreachDUC andeducation, communi opportunities. management future and$23.8million for conservation itslong-termcommitmentmillion for tohabitatasset At March 31, 2018, restricted $130.3 hasinternally DUC in providing wetland andservices. restoration expertise Program,Conservation advantage astrategic gives DUC Land relationshipsand partner aswell asourRevolving efforts. This, combined withour investment inlandowner mapping)toguideanddeliver conservation (wetland tems adaptive management andgeographic sys- information For years, hasinvested DUC inscience, engineering, Chief Financial Officer Chief Financial Sullivan,Marcy your continued support. accomplishments thispastyear, to andwe look forward Thank role for theimportant you you’ve played inour leadership. for to looks nation the premierorganization conservation continueand commitment tomakeusthe totransparency isbothdelivered andperceived.servation governance Our than 126,000strong, theway con istransforming DUC community thatstandsmore outreach andaconservation ourresearch pedigree,With strong partnerships, educational toolsandstreamline itsprocesses.logical project,transformation updateDUC’s tofurther techno Management, ofthebusinesssystems salesandinventory) approved thethird phase (Constituent Relationship the second phase ofourtransformation. The board has Inc. Systems and Sierra are assistingusincompleting project in2018were $1.2million. Microsoft partners Our Investments inDUC’s transformation businesssystems ofitsgovernance structure. andefficiency the foundation committed toandhasmade great inmaintaining strides arise. whenopportunities toact quickly bility isalso DUC provides theflexi opportunities conservation funding for andgovernment partners. industry restricted Internally the environment Canadians. toall important This includes ofwetlands water, for theimportance cating and wildlife - - - - cent in2018(2017 –42percent). hasimprovedratio year over year (expenses/revenue) andwas46per expenditures. inthefundraising included efficiency The fundraising ofon-site andauctions, raffles through avariety dise isutilized andis year over year. canvary ratio efficiency fundraising overall Merchan- across events of326community fundraising Canada,experience the ofsome philanthropic tothetiming and size gifts,Due aswell asthe cent). expenditures in2018(2017–82per cent investment inConservation its totalexpenditures, Fundraising. including an81per achieved DUC of expenditures tain amore than80percentinvestment inConservation tion expenditures in2018(2017–94percent). strives DUC to main- expenditures. a93percentinvestment achieved inConserva- DUC andAdministration expenditures ofitstotalConservation servation tomaintainamore strives than90percentinvestmentDUC inCon- Ratios Efficiency ** does notinclude$12.1millioninfundraising andphilanthropic expenses strength. Financial • raised; dollars and Leveraging • Efficientuseoffunds; • Diverse revenue sources; • benefitsfrom:DUC ($Millions)Uses ofFunds Investment income from andlong-term investments. short • Program andotherincome, revenue fee-for-service includes which • Fundraising income, philanthropic givingandgrass- includes which • (both federal ofgovernment sources from including Grants avariety • sources: generates revenue fromDUC primary four Sources ofRevenue ($Millions) Overview lands; and revenues from themanagement ofowned conservation and ancillary roots fundraising; United States; Unlimited, asDucks non-government such organizations Inc. inthe Canada andU.S.), provincial, stateandmunicipal, andfrom other ** $8.2 Conservation missionConservation priorities($Millions) *includes gift-in-kinddonations $13.5 $20.3 $7.4 $4.3 $8.3 $20.3

$3.2 $7.4 $6.1 $2.8 $51.5 $79.4 Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201861 $61.0 implementation costs) systemin financial $1.2million (excludes Administration purchases) (includes capitalizedland Conservation Investment Income Partnerships Non-Government Program andOther Fundraising Revenue* Government Grants Relations Government Industry and Communications Education and Evaluation Research and Revolving Land Habitat

62 Ducks Unlimited Canada AnnualReport 2018 FINANCIAL SUMMARY Young dated July24,2018.Visit ducks.ca/annualreport. expressed anopinionwithoutreservation intheirreport Ducks Unlimitedfinancial statements of Canada asatandforthe years endedMarch 31,2018andMarch 31,2017,onwhichErnst and Company’sposition, financial results ofoperations, changesinnetassetsand cash flows, reference bemade should tothe complete organizations. Readersare cautioned thatthesestatements appropriate maynotbe fortheirpurposes. For more informationonthe These condensed financialstatements donot contain allofthedisclosures required by Canadian accounting standards fornot-for-profit (in thousandsofdollars) |For theyears endedMarch 31 statementsoffinancialposition condensed Canada Unlimited Ducks Othercurrent assets Conservation lands Property, plantandequipment,net Land heldforresale Investments Short-term investments Invested inlandheldforresale, property, plant andequipment Internally restricted cre eso n te otepomn eeis1,1 16,858 16,423 18,619 21,801 30,830 37,403 Net assets tosupportconservationactivities: Non-current deferred contributionsandunearned revenue Accrued pensionandotherpost-employmentbenefits Current portionofdeferred contributionsand unearnedrevenue Unrestricted conservationlands conspybeadcretprino orwns$2,5 29,193 $ 29,559 $ Accounts payableandcurrent portionofborrowings Liabilities andNetAssets Cash Current assets Assets 3,6 411,291 $ 439,160 $ 501$28,936 $ 25,031 $ 3,6 411,291 $ 439,160 $ 7,8 143,086 173,584 3,7 317,987 331,778 7,4 167,354 174,343 0,8 93,304 107,382 4,0 131,775 140,201 7,1 173,231 178,012 75832,447 27,558 35512,981 13,565 21622,390 22,106 61,818 082017 2018 9,229 ,0 7,883 7,309

70,578 9,195 Revenue (in thousandsofdollars) |For theyears endedMarch 31 and expenses andchangesinunrestricted netassets statementsofrevenue condensed Canada Unlimited Ducks Expenses Closing balanceunrestricted netassets Opening balanceunrestricted netassets netassetsChange inunrestricted Administration Fundraising Conservation program Investment income Program andother Government grants Non-government partnerships Grassroots fundraising Philanthropic fundraising Transfers fromunrestricted netassets Excess ofrevenue over expenses for theyear Ducks Unlimited CanadaAnnualReport 201863 $ $ $ 0,6 107,379 100,168 1,9)(24,314) (15,991) 13,565 65524,745 16,575 35382,634 83,593 15849,566 51,508 34815,701 13,478 29112,550 12,981 082017 2018 64,161 21912,405 12,119 ,3 6,026 8,330 ,8 9,814 9,682 9,788 ,8 15,986 7,382 ,1 7,457 7,313 8 431 584 $ $ $ 62,772 12,981 10,286 DUC’s 80-year history is coloured with many great migrations— and the journey continues. With every passing season, our flock grows in strength and unity. Together, we are taking wetland conservation to new people, new places and new heights. ©Dean Davenport

66 Ducks Unlimited Canada Annual Report 2018 National Office P.O. Box 1160 Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0 Tel: 204-467-3000 Toll-free: 1-800-665-DUCK

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