Ducks Unlimited Podcast

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, a senior veterinarian from Purina and an expert in canine care, to discuss dogs' vital role in waterfowl hunting. Dr. Lobos shares her extensive knowledge, offering valuable insights into the dos and don'ts of hunting with your dog. Listeners will gain practical tips to ensure their canine companions are healthy, safe, and effective while out in the field. With a background rooted in veterinary medicine and a passion for outdoor adventures, Dr. Lobos is well-equipped to help hunters make the most of their experience with their four-legged friends. Tune in for an informative and engaging conversation that promises to enhance your hunting outings with your dog!@petvetruthannListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected] (02:19) - Nutrition for hunting dogs. (00:00) - Chapter 2 (06:09) - Ideal body condition for dogs. (00:00) - Chapter 4 (08:45) - Ideal body condition for dogs. (00:00) - Chapter 6 (11:48) - Senior dog recovery needs. (00:00) - Chapter 8 (19:10) - Dog temperature tolerance extremes. (00:00) - Chapter 10 (20:17) - Dog temperature safety tips. (00:00) - Chapter 12 (26:22) - Routine checkups for dogs. (00:00) - Chapter 14 (29:38) - Importance of dog nutrition. (00:00) - Chapter 16 (32:32) - Dog nutrition and food selection. (00:00) - Chapter 18 (37:14) - Keeping dogs safe outdoors. (00:00) - Chapter 20 (40:10) - Chasing ducks together.

This episode was originally aired on: December 14, 2020John Pollmann, a freelance contributor to DU magazine, rejoins the DU Podcast to discuss decoy strategies with Chris Jennings. The two review a magazine feature Pollmann wrote detailing how to create the simplest, most effective decoy spread possible. They also discuss the varying habitats where these unique spreads are used and how other hunters can recreate the scenarios in their hunting areas.Read the full Feature: https://www.ducks.org/hunting/decoys/five-simple-spreads-for-waterfowlListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

They're Baaaack! Do strange and spooky things happen while hunting? Early morning hunts tend to produce some of the wildest stories of the unknown. Host Matt Harrison and guest hosts Clay Baird and Kayleigh Michell are joined by Kyle Philson and Cam Hale, the hosts of Expanded Perspectives Podcast, to discuss the weird, unexplainable, creepy, and unusual experiences hunters have had while in the field. Get ready to have fun and be spooked by stories of ghosts, Bigfoot, and more!Make sure you also check out the Expanded Perspectives podcast here…www.expandedperspectives.comListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

Dr. Mike Brasher is on location with Fred Zink Jr., co-host of DU TV and owner of Avian-X and Zink Call, and John Simpson, manager of Winous Point Shooting Club, for an early-season migration update and a discussion about the history of waterfowl hunting in northwestern Ohio. The group reflects on the vital role that private landowners and duck clubs play in conserving and managing high-quality wetlands and how warmer winters, less snow, and greater hunting pressure are affecting the timing of migration and hunting opportunities.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Dr. Jerad Henson and co-host Dr. Mike Brasher welcome special guest Pete Stoddart, Director of Corporate Responsibility at Cargill, along with Adam DeHaan, DU’s Senior Director of Development for Minnesota and Iowa. The discussion centers around Playa wetlands and the innovative funding opportunities and unique partnerships that are overcoming conservation challenges in Kansas and Nebraska. Pete and Adam discuss the DU and Cargill partnership and how they helped Cargill reach their sustainability goals and create and restore valuable waterfowl habitats. Tune in for insights into how collaboration paves the way for impactful environmental initiatives.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

In this episode, host Katie Burke chats with call maker Ron Gould about his journey from hunting in Fayette County, Illinois, to mastering the craft of call-making. Starting in the late '90s with turkey calls, Ron eventually perfected his duck calls through years of practice. He shares how mentors and friends influenced his style and discusses the deep connection between hunting, call-making, and the joy of the outdoors. Whether you're a hunter or curious about the craft, this episode offers valuable insights.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, host Matt Harrison sits down with waterfowl legend Jim Ronquest. With over 50 years of experience, Ronquest offers valuable hunting tips, personal stories from the field, and insights on elevating your waterfowl hunting game. He also reflects on his deep passion for conservation and the future of waterfowl habitats. Whether you're new to hunting or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with knowledge and inspiration from one of the best in the industry.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

Despite recent declines in some goose populations, fresh data suggest that hunters have reasons to be optimistic about the number of young birds flying south this fall. Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by goose experts Josh Dooley (US Fish and Wildlife Service) and Frank Baldwin (Canadian Wildlife Service) to discuss indices for arctic and subarctic goose populations from Alaska to Atlantic Canada. Many areas experienced early spring and good to excellent conditions for nesting, with multiple indicators suggesting better production than what was experienced a few years in the past. New data and hunter reports from the prairies support these conclusions, so good luck to goose hunters as you head afield.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected] (01:06) - - Introduction and Guest Introductions (03:39) - - Josh Dooley's Role and Responsibilities (04:38) - - Focus on Goose Productivity for 2024 (05:52) - - Western Goose Populations Overview (06:52) - - Defining Spring Phenology (08:00) - - Diverse Goose Species in North America (08:36) - - Data Sets for Assessing Goose Productivity (11:38) - - Resources for Goose Population Information (14:51) - - Management Plans and Their Importance (15:35) - - Transition to Alaska Goose Production (16:34) - - Alaska Goose Production Overview (20:36) - - Black Brant Nesting Success and Challenges (22:13) - - Additional Goose Populations in the Pacific Flyway (23:40) - - General Decline in Goose Population Indices (26:54) - - Transition to Mid-Continent Goose Production (27:38) - - Productivity Survey Genesis and Importance (31:09) - - Spring Conditions and Expectations for Production (33:45) - - Preliminary Productivity Survey Results (36:24) - - Mid-Continent Snow Goose Production (38:57) - - Ross's Goose Productivity Overview (40:13) - - Western Arctic Goose Production Insights (41:12) - - Delayed Breeding and Population Dynamics (42:47) - - Atlantic Canada Goose Populations Overview (45:33) - - Greater Snow Goose Productivity Insights (46:09) - - Harvest Age Ratios and Their Significance (47:48) - - Cackling Goose Production Overview (48:52) - - Temperate Nesting Canada Geese Productivity (49:35) - - Local Productivity and Migrant Vulnerability

In this bonus episode, Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Scott Stephens, Josh Dooley (USFWS), and Frank Baldwin (CWS) for an impromptu update on the status of waterfowl migration and wetland conditions from Yellowknife to South Dakota. Cold weather in the far north is ushering birds south, while continued warmth in the prairies has blue-wings holding strong. Wetland conditions in the Canadian prairies are some of the driest ever seen by Dr. Stephens, yet Frank reports good success on bigger waters. With cooler weather on the horizon, many are hoping for a new push of birds as the season gets into full swing.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected] (00:00) - - Introduction and Sponsors (01:05) - - Episode Overview (02:03) - - Guest Introduction: Josh Dooley (02:52) - - Guest Introduction: Frank Baldwin (04:03) - - Migration and Goose Production Update (04:42) - - Yellowknife Migration Insights (06:39) - - Weather and Migration Patterns (08:05) - - Manitoba Hunting and Bird Observations (10:21) - - Wetland Conditions in Manitoba (12:08) - - Snow Geese and Cacklers Arrival (12:19) - - Teaser for Goose Production Episode (13:37) - - Introduction of Dr. Scott Stevens (15:04) - - Scott Stevens' Recent Travels (16:07) - - Hunting in Saskatchewan (17:08) - - Weather and Bird Conditions in Saskatchewan (18:59) - - Mallard and Pintail Observations (20:56) - - Weather Impact on Migration (22:02) - - Blue-winged Teal Sightings (23:25) - - Bird Numbers in North Dakota and South Dakota (24:18) - - Goose Production Observations (25:46) - - Future Hunting Plans (27:00) - - Border Crossing with Birds and Dogs (28:24) - - Closing Remarks and Thanks

In this episode, host Katie Burke sits down with acclaimed wildlife artist and carver Jett Brunet. Jett shares insights into his early life, growing up under the influence of his equally renowned father, a master carver. He reflects on the pressures and inspirations of living up to such a legacy, discussing how his artistic journey has evolved over the years. From his initial motivations to his current creative process, Jett offers a candid look at what has shaped him as an artist and how his passion for the craft has transformed.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes his good friend Brodie Swisher. They reminisce about their memorable hunting camp experience that started their friendship. Matt highlights Brodie's incredible passion for the outdoors, youth involvement, and community betterment. Brodie shares insights into his own podcast and brand, Hunting Roots, which focuses on reconnecting with the traditions of hunting and sharing personal stories from the hunting community. Tune in to hear about the importance of storytelling in hunting and how it plays a role in fostering connections and preserving the heritage of the sport.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Duck hunters are obsessive weather watchers, as it influences everything from large-scale migration to local movements and habitat use. In this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher welcomes Skot Covert, chief meteorologist at CBS 5News Fort Smith-Fayetteville, AR, and Chance Gotsch, meteorologist at ABC17 Columbia, MO, to discuss early season forecasts for the upcoming fall and winter. Recorded on September 16, 2024, Skot and Chance provide an education on La Nina, El Nino, and how they influence the weather we experience. Although the outlook isn’t great for southern hunters, wild cards in play, so tune in for the details.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

As temperatures drop, it's important to ensure your retriever stays safe and healthy. Mike Stewart, owner of Wildrose Kennels, joins host Chris Jennings to discuss essential cold-weather retriever care. From icy conditions and snow to bitter winds, Stewart highlights key warning signs to watch for when hunting in winter. He also delves into important topics such as cold-tail, essential items for retriever blind bags, hypothermia prevention, and proper feeding routines. Have recommendations or questions? Reach out to the DU Podcast team at [email protected]/DUPodcast

On this episode of the Ducks Limited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes co-host Dr. Mike Brasher and special guest Edward Wall, a professional photographer and owner of Wall Media. Ed shares his journey from a hobbyist taking pictures of his dog and duck hunting to building a successful photography business over the past 10-12 years. He reflects on the learning curve he experienced, mentioning the many bad photos he took early on and the occasional good ones that inspired him to keep going. The conversation highlights Ed's passion for photography and his dedication to capturing moments and showcasing the evolution of his craft. Tune in for insights into the world of photography and the stories behind the lens!www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes 2008 ATA trap shooting world champion Foster Bartholow. The conversation delves into Foster's journey into the world of shooting, beginning with his childhood experiences in the outdoors and hunting alongside his family. Foster shares how a youth shooting program at his high school sparked his passion for trap shooting, leading to his rapid success in the sport. Listeners will gain insights into Foster's dedication to shooting and his perspective on the importance of outdoor activities. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with tips, personal anecdotes, and a celebration of the shooting sports community.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

It’s early September, and duck hunting is back! But it’s also the time of year when identifying ducks can be most challenging, as most have yet to attain their signature breeding plumage. On this made-for-video episode, Chris Jennings is joined by Dr. Mike Brasher, Dr. Jerad Henson, and Katie Burke as they discuss the popular pastime of sexing and aging ducks based on wing and tail characteristics. Tune in to learn more about this educational skill and how you can apply it on your next hunt, even if you aren’t all that confident!WATCH ON YOUTUBEwww.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Chris Jennings, Mallori Murphey, and Dr. Scott Stephens join Dr. Mike Brasher to discuss the current status of teal migration, habitat conditions, and how you can stay informed during the hunting season. Through DU’s Migration Alerts, hunters will be “in the know” about bird numbers, weather systems, hunting success, and habitat conditions. Waterfowl 360 is here with a plethora of hunting resources, including decoy tactics, recipes, waterfowl ID, hunting stories, and more. Lastly, Dr. Scott Stephens shares the latest from Prairie Canada and his first week of the new season. Spoiler alert…it’s dry again, but skinny teal decoys once again proved their worth! “Life is Short. You Better Hunt.”www.ducks.org/migrationwww.waterfowl360.comwww.ducks.org/DUPodcast

On this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison is joined by co-host Dr. Mike Brasher and special guest Seth Dortch. Seth shares his background and deep connection to Ducks Unlimited, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation. With a career focused on marketing and branding in the outdoor industry, Seth reflects on his journey and the continuous learning process. Tune in for a discussion on media, branding, and the shared passion for habitat conservation.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

On this episode of the DU podcast, hosts Jimbo Robinson and Tim Fehringer welcome university chapter volunteers for the summer leadership summit, Third Term. With over 300 students attending from 80 different colleges, the summit promises to be an exciting and engaging event. Tune in to hear a special episode featuring these students discussing their experiences and involvement in the program.Check out Third Term here!

Host Dr. Jerad Henson is joined by co-hosts Katie Burke, Derek Christians, Dr. Mike Brasher, and Matt Harrison in the new studio. They welcome guest Rob Southwick from Southwick Associates to discuss what motivates people to hunt, sharing new research on hunter personas for R3 and other insights from his 35 years of experience in understanding and analyzing hunting participation and trends data. Rob highlights the importance of engaging people in hunting and fishing for conservation efforts and enhancing future opportunities. Tune in to learn more about the driving factors behind hunting participation and how this can impact wildlife conservation.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Chuck Black, the 2023 Federal Duck Stamp Competition winner and wildlife artist, joins the Ducks Unlimited podcast to discuss his busy year and upcoming events. Chuck talks about the competition, his duties, and the transition to selling prints after the first day of sales. Tune in to hear about Chuck's experiences as the Federal Duck Stamp winner and his upcoming plans in the world of wildlife art.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

With duckDNA season 1 now in the books, DU teams up with Ramsey Russell of It’s Duck Season Somewhere and Dr. Phil Lavretsky to review early scientific insights, odd ducks, and the overall excitement around the project. Co-hosts Dr. Mike Brasher and Dr. Jerad Henson visit with Ramsey and Phil compare notes on their experiences and take a deep dive into some of the results, including an examination of several unique hybrids. Also discussed are the status of season 2, important changes coming your way, and a reminder of how you can participate. Follow the project this season on Instagram at @theduckDNA, and apply to participate at www.duckDNA.com.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

In this second part of host Katie Burke's interview with carver Guy Taplin, we explore his fascination with past American decoy carvers and his understanding of the landscape and place where they worked. He delves into his experiences in America and the influence of key figures like Henry Fleckenstein and John Sullivan. He reflects on how his current friendships and mentorships have shaped his view of decoys and his artwork and how his experiences of visiting places like the Eastern Shore of Virginia and Cobb Island have been reflected in his work. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Today on the Ducks Unlimited podcast, Katie Burke is joined by special guest Guy Taplin from Essex, England, to discuss waterfowl carving and the unique landscape of Essex. Taplin describes his early life growing up in the countryside during and after World War II and how he first became enamored with waterfowl and waterfowl hunting. Tune in to learn more about the early years of Guy Taplin's life and how it led to his becoming a full-time carver. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

On this special episode, Dr. Mike Brasher and Dr. Scott Stephens break down the freshly released U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2024 Waterfowl Population Status report and important changes coming to hunters. Listen in to find out which species increased, where the major surprises were, and how rainfall in April and May affected prairie pond conditions and duck settling patterns. Also discussed are implications of these data for the 2025-26 hunting season, including potential continuation of liberal seasons, new pintail regulations, and early teal seasons. Get the latest news on the best waterfowl data on the planet, with special thanks to our partners in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Canadian Wildlife Service, and state and provincial agencies.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Host Chris Jennings is joined by DU magazine contributor John Pollmann to discuss a popular topic – freelancing the prairies. Pollmann’s experiences as a South Dakota resident provides a different perspective to freelancing and the pair discuss common tactics, including best practices to approach landowners.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

As waterfowlers peer ahead to the approaching hunting season, botulism has become a headline in the West and state agencies have released results from their 2024 waterfowl breeding population surveys. Today’s conversation begins with Jeff McCreary, DU’s director of operations for the Western Region, giving the latest update on avian botulism in the Klamath Basin and the solutions that DU and partners are trying to deliver. We then go across the country with Nathan Ratchford, Dr. Dan Smith, Dr. John Coluccy, and Dr. Mike Brasher to review results from state waterfowl surveys in California, Oregon, Washington, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. What were population and habitat conditions like this spring? How do these data inform harvest regulations and our knowledge of duck populations? And what can hunters take from these surveys as we await the release of the much larger U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service waterfowl status report.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

So, you want to hunt that field where there’s a big feed? Time to start knocking on doors. Host Chris Jennings is joined by John Pollmann, freelance contributor to Ducks Unlimited magazine and ducks.org, to talk about the best, and worst ways to ask for permission. The pair also discuss some different tactics to improve success rates on getting permission, and also keeping it for the long term. For waterfowlers looking to gain access to private ground, this podcast is a must-listen before the season begins.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Jerad Henson and DU conservation communications coordinator, Nathan Ratchford, to provide the latest update on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention new rules for bringing dogs into the U.S. Also discussed is the status of USDA APHIS guidelines for importing harvested game birds from Canada. Spoiler Alert--they remain unchanged from 2023. If you are a waterfowl hunter or dog owner heading north to harvest some feathered ‘fowl, you need this episode!

Host Chris Jennings is joined by John Pollmann, freelance contributor to Ducks Unlimited magazine and ducks.org, to talk about the excitement of opening day of waterfowl season and ways to avoid making simple mistakes. As opening day continues to creep closer, there are several tactics many duck and goose hunters don’t take into account, leaving them open to potential failure. Follow along as these two discuss best practices to make your opening day a success.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

After overwhelming response, duckDNA has officially returned for year 2! On this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher and Dr. Jerad Henson share this exciting news and what you need to know about the upcoming season. Also discussed are the forthcoming release of the breeding population survey, what it might mean for harvest regulations, the latest on Avian Influenza, and new programs that are improving DU’s ability to conserve waterfowl habitats through sustainability and ecosystem service benefits.

Host Chris Jennings is joined by Mike Stewart, owner of Wildrose Kennels to discuss retriever training during the peak of summer heat. The conversation leads to a discussion on summer training for dogs, touching on different locations and the importance of adjusting training routines based on weather conditioning. Stewart brings to light several training, nutrition, and health tips to keep your retriever in shape and safe from heat stroke.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

PART 2: On this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Katie Burke sits down with Joe and Donna Tonelli, avid hunters, collectors, and historians. Joe shares his early introduction to hunting through family traditions, while Donna's expertise in writing about decoys and ducks adds depth to their shared passion. Tune in to hear about their journey into the outdoors, from childhood memories to their love for hunting and collecting decoys.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

PART 1: On this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Katie Burke sits down with Joe and Donna Tonelli, avid hunters, collectors, and historians. Joe shares his early introduction to hunting through family traditions, while Donna's expertise in writing about decoys and ducks adds depth to their shared passion. Tune in to hear about their journey into the outdoors, from childhood memories to their love for hunting and collecting decoys.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Host Chris Jennings is joined by Beau Brooks, digital marketing specialist for Higdon Outdoors, to talk about the highly popular whistle. Brooks specializes in calling ducks with a whistle. He explains his best practices calling teal, wood ducks, wigeon, pintails, and mallards. Listeners are sure to pick up a handful of helpful tips as Brooks details how, when, and why he uses these species-specific calls.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

After 4 years of extended drought, spring and summer rains finally provide relief to the US and Canadian prairies, but what does it mean for the fall flight? Dr. Scott Stephens joins co-hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher for a mid-July update on breeding habitat conditions across the prairies and boreal forest. Because much of the rain came after ducks had settled and managers expect a relatively small breeding population count, waterfowlers probably shouldn’t expect a banner crop this fall. Nevertheless, renesting and brood survival should benefit, and wetland conditions heading into fall will be better than they’ve been in years.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Much has been said about increasing prevalence of game-farm genes in mallard populations, but evidence has been scarce on whether these genes produce differences in behavior and demography…until now. Pivotal research by Dr. Ben Luukkonen reveals that game-farm hybrids differ from wild mallards in their movements, migration, habitat use, and nest incubation. The conclusion? Game-farm hybrids are different, and not in a good way. In this episode, Dr. Luukkonen and Dr. John Coluccy share details of these results and much more. What are harvest rates of Great Lakes mallards, and what role has hunting played in the decline, if any? Could the loss of over 3 million acres of CRP from this landscape be partly to blame? And how do these results affect our conservation efforts?www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Great Lakes mallards are an important source of local harvest for hunters in the region, but their population has declined by nearly 60% since 1997. Recently completed research sponsored by Ducks Unlimited and a host of other partners provides insights into the potential causes. In the first of this 2-part discussion, Dr. Ben Luukkonen, imminent PhD graduate from Michigan State University, and Dr. John Coluccy, DU’s director of conservation planning and science for the Great Lakes and Atlantic Region, introduce the background for this research and highlight the questions it explored, ranging from changes in survival to influence of game-farm genetics. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Happy Independence Day, everyone! You inspire us to innovate and improve. We cannot wait to share these exciting new chapters with you and continue our journey together in preserving our wetlands and waterfowl for generations to come. Please don't ever hesitate to reach out with questions, comments, or suggestions for content. Thank you for listening and being part of the Ducks Unlimited podcast community. Enjoy your 4th of July weekend and be safe. Cheers.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Every 2 years, there is a transition at the top of DU’s volunteer leadership, as the membership approves a new President and the outgoing president takes the helm as Chairman of the Board. On this episode, DU’s new President, Bob Spoerl, joins Chairman of the Board, Chuck Smith, and podcast host Dr. Mike Brasher to discuss the ins and outs of this biennial action. We get to know our new president, hear his plans for the coming years, and learn about his passion for wetlands and waterfowl conservation. We also reflect on Chuck’s time as president and the organizational growth that has occurred on his watch. We say thank you to Bob, Chuck, and all volunteers for the limitless contributions and leadership they provide to Ducks Unlimited, in turn making us a unstoppable force for conservation.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

On this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, Dr. Jerad Henson hosts Dr. Mike Brasher, senior waterfowl scientist, and Dr. Ellen Herbert, senior scientist for Sustainability and Nature-Based Solutions. They dive into the value of wetlands, discussing the importance of wetlands for waterfowl and sustainability. They highlight the significance of wetlands in the priority landscapes of the prairie pothole region and Mississippi River valley. Tune in to explore the vital role wetland ecosystems play in our world and the work being done at Ducks Unlimited to protect them.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Thanks to a newly approved pintail harvest strategy, waterfowl hunters in the Lower 48 may soon have the opportunity for a 3-pintail bag limit for the first time since 1997. In this June roundup, Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher provide updates on the new strategy and what it might mean for hunters, and when we should expect to learn more. New information on spring habitat conditions and the continued spread of avian flu in dairy cattle is also provided, and we get a virtual sneak peek at the New Guns & Gear segment in the forthcoming Ducks Unlimited magazine.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Dr. Karen Waldrop, DU’s chief conservation officer, joins Dr. Mike Brasher to share two unprecedented announcements reflecting DU’s continued growth and impact for waterfowl conservation. First was a monumental $100 Million gift from Jim Kennedy and the James M. Cox Foundation to support permanent protection of wetlands and grasslands in DU’s highest priority landscape – the Prairie Pothole Region. Second was DU’s organizational milestone of having delivered 1 Million acres of conservation in a single year for the first time in our history. These achievements put DU in an elite category of the non-profit world and demonstrate the power and appeal of our conservation mission.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

The feeding call is fundamental for all callers to understand. However, Jimbo Ronquest, vice president of development for Drake Waterfowl and world duck calling champion, explains the variations that can be added to your arsenal to improve your calling abilities. Ronquest and host Chris Jennings discuss his feeding calls and break down when he uses them and why. Get your calls ready. This lesson in duck calling will take your duck calling to the next level.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Ryan Taylor, DU’s director of public policy and self-professed “rancher in residence” for the Great Plains Region, joins Dr. Mike Brasher to share stories as a 4th Generation rancher while explaining how these experiences help him work effectively with ranchers and farmers. Ryan is a firm believer that agriculture and ranching can work well with duck habitat conservation, and after listening you’ll likely agree that he’s the perfect person to lead DU’s conservation policy in the prairies. Lastly, we learn how eating a steak or hamburger this weekend will support healthy duck populations!www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Duck and goose hunting equipment is expensive. Why not have a plan to protect your gear during the summer months? Host Chris Jennings is joined by John Pollmann, Ducks Unlimited magazine contributor to discuss best practices for storing your duck and goose hunting equipment in the off season.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

On this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, Dr. Jered Henson introduces himself as a new host and project manager at Ducks Unlimited. He welcomes guests Kate Hackett and Josh Green from the lands team to discuss how Ducks Unlimited ensures the longevity of their conservation work. Kate, the managing director of lands in Memphis, shares insights into land protection efforts at Ducks Unlimited. Join them as they delve into the importance of sustainability and conservation programs in their mission.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR), joins Dr. Mike Brasher and guest host Adam Putnam, Ducks Unlimited CEO, for an inspiring conversation that spans football fields to forests. Congressman Westerman speaks of his “unchosen obligations” as a conservationist and how it shapes his decisions in crafting and passing legislation to benefit America’s wildlife, their habitats, and the millions of outdoorsmen and women that enjoy them. Ducks Unlimited thanks Chairman Westerman for supporting conservation and for sharing his insights on everything from duck blinds to forest management, avian influenza, legislative priorities, and our responsibility to conserve resources for the future. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Sanctuary…it is perhaps the most controversial and poorly understood aspect of habitat management for wintering waterfowl, yet potentially most important. In Part 2 of our discussion with Dr. Nick Masto and Dr. Abby Blake-Bradshaw, we dig deeper into their study of wintering mallards in western Tennessee, with a focus on the relationship between ducks and sanctuary. How did mallards respond to experimental disturbance, and how did it affect shooting opportunities of hunters? How does the amount and distribution of sanctuary affect mallard movements and habitat use patterns, and did mallards return to the same areas year after year? Does extreme cold weather drive birds south, or does it depend? The answers to these and other questions may surprise you, and you could find yourself questioning long-held beliefs about sanctuary.ww.ducks.org/DUPodcast

A research idea, born in a duck blind, matures into a $2 million cutting-edge study, is funded heavily by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency through dollars collected from hunters and shooters, and sets out to answer dozens of questions about the wintering ecology of mallards in the Mid-South. In this episode, Dr. Abby Blake-Bradshaw and Dr. Nick Masto join Dr. Mike Brasher for Part 1 of their long-awaited discussion about the study we’ve all heard about. Led by the Cohen Wildlife Lab at Tennessee Tech, the study sought to answer questions about winter movements of mallards, their use of sanctuary, effects of disturbance, interactions with food, and how this information can help improve our conservation and management of wintering landscape for mutual benefits to ducks, hunters, and other outdoorspeople. Listen in as we lay the groundwork on this exceptional science.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast