Conservation of ducks and the diverse mix of wetland, grassland and forest habitats they need is important for many reasons. Duck populations provide recreational opportunities for hunters and birdwatchers. Duck habitat supports many other species and provides floodwater storage, groundwater recharge, carbon storage and sediment filtration that improve the quality of life of all Minnesotans.
To achieve these benefits, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources developed a new, four-year Duck Action Plan. The plan will help the DNR focus strategic funding and conservation efforts, enhance and develop partnerships and foster Minnesotans’ stewardship of duck populations and habitats. It identifies the DNR’s goals, objectives and strategies to implement during the next four years and identifies strategic issues that influence duck conservation. The scope includes both ducks that breed in Minnesota and those that stop in Minnesota during migration.