Conservator

Another flock takes flight

Duck Unlimited Canada’s youth advisory council unites the vision of 10 passionate young people for the future of conservation

By Julie Pollock November 12, 2024

A flight of young leaders touched down this summer for an unforgettable three days in the wetlands of Prairie Canada. These bright minds converged to experience conservation training that was specially developed by Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) for them — the Youth Advisory Council. The learning tour literally took them into prairie pothole wetlands, collecting invertebrate samples on foot and learning about climate research by canoe in Oak Hammock Marsh.

The Innovation in Conservation training took place in Manitoba, where the new council members met Ducks Unlimited Canada CEO Michael Nadler and connected with education and research staff to learn about wetland science and conservation. Designed not just to educate but to inspire, it’s a deep dive into the world of waterfowl and wetlands that provides a foundation to carry these passionate conservationists through their two-year journey together.

Like the first council, who completed their term in 2023, the second cohort is passionate about wetland and biodiversity conservation. Over the next two years, they will team up to deepen their knowledge of conservation and share their insights on key environmental issues with some of Ducks Unlimited Canada’s senior leaders.

At Ducks Unlimited Canada, we are proud to engage with young and early-career environmentalists to develop the next generation of scientists, advocates, educators and thinkers. The council is bringing fresh perspectives and energy to conservation vision and leadership in Canada.

Ducks Unlimited Canada gratefully acknowledges the support of Wildlife Habitat Canada in making the Innovation in Conservation training possible.

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The research team was excited to have the opportunity to connect with the council to share the breadth of DUC's science and how we use that science to support wetland conservation. I was inspired by the engagement and commitment of the members of the council. Their passion and curiosity were evident as they jumped chest-high into the marsh to collect invertebrates, having to be coaxed out for the next activity.

Vanessa Harriman, Ducks Unlimited Canada research scientist

Facing the future

A new learning journey has begun for a group of inspired young adults aged 18-25 with their hearts (and ambitions) set on the future of nature. They make up a diverse group, each with their singular perspective, skillset and background. Returning members Fares and Joyce are serving a second term on the council. Council members can serve up to two terms and returning members bring a wealth of foundational knowledge, leadership and mentorship to the new team.

Let’s meet the members of this dedicated squad!

A passion for nature, conservation and community

Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Youth Conservation Network connects young adults, especially post-secondary and post-graduate students, with exciting opportunities, knowledge and experiences in the field of environmental and wetland conservation. Members receive a newsletter and can join campus clubs and educational events, develop leadership skills, and gain valuable hands-on experience in conservation.

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Another flock takes flight

Duck Unlimited Canada’s youth advisory council unites the vision of 10 passionate young people for the future of conservation

Facing the future

A passion for nature, conservation and community

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