Every year‚ members of the California Legislature have the opportunity to recognize a nonprofit organization whose work has made a lasting impact in their communities.
This year‚ Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick proudly selected Ducks Unlimited as Assembly District 1’s Nonprofit of the Year in recognition of their extraordinary leadership in wetland restoration‚ conservation and wildlife habitat management across Northern California and beyond.
“For decades‚ Ducks Unlimited has been a driving force in protecting the natural resources that make the North State so special‚” said Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick. “Their work not only supports wildlife and conservation‚ but also strengthens our farming communities‚ water resources‚ outdoor heritage‚ and local economy. They are a true example of what community partnership and stewardship look like.”
Ducks Unlimited works alongside farmers‚ tribes‚ conservation groups and public agencies to restore and protect critical wetland habitats throughout California and across the Pacific Flyway — one of the most important migratory bird corridors in North America. Their projects can be seen throughout the Sacramento Valley‚ where partnerships with local rice farmers help transform post‑harvest fields into essential winter feeding grounds for millions of migrating birds.
Beyond habitat restoration‚ Ducks Unlimited also plays an important role in preserving North State traditions by supporting youth hunting opportunities‚ shooting sports and waterfowl conservation education. Northern California is home to some of the best waterfowl hunting in the country‚ and these outdoor traditions remain an important part of the region’s economy‚ heritage‚ and way of life.
“In the North State‚ conservation and agriculture go hand in hand with our outdoor traditions‚” Hadwick said. “Ducks Unlimited understands that protecting wetlands also means preserving opportunities for future generations to experience hunting‚ conservation‚ and responsible stewardship of our natural resources.”
Among DU’s most significant projects is the restoration of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge‚ currently the largest freshwater wetland restoration effort in the western United States. This landmark project will provide critical habitat for migratory waterfowl while improving water quality‚ ecosystem health‚ and long‑term environmental resilience throughout the region.
With dedicated members and volunteers across Assembly District 1 and throughout North America‚ Ducks Unlimited continues to leave a lasting legacy of conservation‚ stewardship and service.
“I am proud to honor Ducks Unlimited for the incredible work they do to preserve our natural resources‚ protect wildlife habitats‚ and strengthen communities across California‚” Hadwick said. “Their impact will be felt far beyond our district for generations to come.”
