Welcome Message

My first shot of last year’s duck season produced the banded wigeon in the photo. When I checked the band information, I was amazed to learn that it had been banded in Alberta, at a Ducks Unlimited Canada wetland complex. I had proof in hand that Fall Flights works!

That said, there is still much work to be done. The Canadian Habitat Joint Ventures estimate that nearly 14 million acres of habitat must be protected, at an estimated cost of nearly 4 billion dollars, to meet our shared goals set forth in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. 

Each of us has a role to play. Let’s build on the momentum from last year’s record-breaking effort. If your state hasn’t reached its goal, consider reaching out to the 15 states that have achieved this milestone for guidance and effective strategies. The Fall Flights manager, partners, and Advisory Committee members stand ready to help you develop a solid plan to hit your midpoint target by 2026 and achieve your full goal by 2031.

Together, we can ensure future generations will have the privilege of experiencing the awe-inspiring wonder of bird migrations.



Chuck Sykes

Fall Flights Advisory Committee Member

Director, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries