WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Mark Pryor (D-Ark.), Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), and John Boozman (R-Ark.) on Thursday praised passage of a resolution they introduced to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Ducks Unlimited Incorporated.  The resolution recognizes the organization’s achievements for habitat conservation and support for America’s waterfowling heritage.

Ducks Unlimited was formed in 1937 to address an unprecedented decline in the number of waterfowl due to an extensive North American drought.  In the previous year, the duck season had been cut to 30 days and the hunting of several species was prohibited.  Today, Americans can enjoy millions of acres of wetlands and a vibrant waterfowl population as a result of the conservation efforts spearheaded by Ducks Unlimited.

“The outstanding work by Ducks Unlimited over the last 75 years has helped preserve America’s duck hunting tradition by protecting critical habitat for waterfowl,” said Wicker.  “Generations of Mississippians have learned the important lessons that hunting teaches, and responsible conservation can ensure future generations will have the same opportunities.” 

“We are so fortunate in Arkansas, the Duck Hunting Capital of the World, to see and enjoy the difference that Ducks Unlimited has made over the past 75 years,” Pryor said.  “I am proud to recognize this organization’s achievements, and look forward to working with its members to support habitat conservation programs.”

“Ducks Unlimited has been successful because it works cooperatively with landowners and communities on conservation projects.  Mississippi and the nation have benefitted from its endeavors, and it is fitting that the Senate help commemorate the diamond anniversary of Ducks Unlimited,” Cochran said.

“For 75 years, Ducks Unlimited has been leading efforts to ensure that our region’s duck hunting tradition and habitat protection exist side-by-side. The organization was founded by waterfowl hunters and sustained all these years by waterfowl hunters, which has taught and reminded generations of sportsmen in Arkansas to be respectful of natural habitats while promoting the values of duck hunting. Ducks Unlimited’s hard work and dedication has protected and restored wetlands across Arkansas and the North American continent and preserved our nation’s duck hunting tradition for future generations,” Boozman said.

After decades of commitment to conserving waterfowl habitat, Ducks Unlimited has become the world’s largest and one of the most effective private waterfowl and wetlands conservation organizations.  The group, which has raised $3.4 billion for conservation and education, has protected over 4.5 million acres of waterfowl habitat in the United States and over 12.6 million acres in North America. 

As part of its celebration, Ducks Unlimited is highlighting the group’s efforts in each state and with events around the country.  For more information, visit www.ducks.org.