WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) announced the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) has approved a nearly $2.1 million North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant for the conservation and preservation of more than 2,000 acres of waterfowl habitat in Crittenden and Desha counties. Private contributors including Ducks Unlimited will supply approximately $4.2 million in matching funds.

Boozman, an MBCC member since 2018, applauded the funding and its impact on wetland conservation, waterfowl recreation and the outdoor economy in The Natural State.

“Arkansas is the duck hunting capital of the world, so serving as a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission provides an invaluable opportunity to protect and enhance that legacy. This public-private investment will help preserve a critical habitat for migratory birds so they can continue to thrive while generating additional ecological benefits and keeping our renowned waterfowl hunting tradition strong for years to come,” Boozman said.

“For more than 35 years, NAWCA has been the gold standard for wetlands conservation in North America,” said Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam. “Every dollar invested in the program is typically doubled or tripled by matching contributions, making it an incredible return on investment that benefits America’s hunters, migratory bird populations, and outdoor economy. This program maintains its success through consistent, bipartisan support from Congress and the administration, and we’re ready to help turn this investment into habitat that will further sustain waterfowl populations.”

The project is the continuation of a multi-phase effort within the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) aimed at the protection, restoration and enhancement of a total of 2,105 acres of critical wetland habitats on public lands. By maintaining and restoring the landscape, it serves to increase non-breeding period survival and subsequent breeding success of migratory birds that utilize this wintering and migration habitat.

Established in 1929, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission was created to consider and approve the purchase of wetlands and other areas recommended by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior for purchase or easement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as establish new waterfowl refuges.

The Federal Duck Stamp is a major source of revenue for NAWCA that helps fund the purchase of migratory bird habitat. Last Congress, Boozman authored legislation to allow use of a permanent electronic duck stamp for the entirety of a waterfowl hunting season while traditional Duck Stamps remain available for purchase. The Duck Stamp Modernization Act was signed into law in December 2023.