GUSTINE, Calif. — Ducks Unlimited is growing its grassroots conservation mission in California with the launch of a new chapter in Gustine, marking an expansion of its wetland restoration and waterfowl conservation efforts in the region.
A recruitment meeting and social for the new chapter will be held at 6 p.m. on May 20 at WhichCraft Taproom, located at 374 5th Street in Gustine. The meeting is open to the public, with food and drinks provided at no cost. Anyone interested in supporting wetland conservation and joining Ducks Unlimited’s mission is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Garrett Williams at (209) 324-8801.
For nearly 90 years, Ducks Unlimited has led the charge in conserving, restoring, and managing wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. Wetlands are disappearing at an alarming rate, putting waterfowl populations and other wildlife at risk. The organization works tirelessly to reverse this trend through science-backed conservation efforts and strategic partnerships.
In the past year, Ducks Unlimited achieved a milestone by delivering 1 million acres of tangible conservation across the United States. This unprecedented success, supported by over a million volunteers and members, reflects a growing commitment to protecting vital ecosystems. Conservation projects target priority breeding and wintering areas, including the Prairie Pothole Region and California’s coastal marshes.
DU’s California advocacy has been especially active in 2025. In April, Ducks Unlimited representatives gathered at the State Capitol in Sacramento to meet with legislators and advocate for wetland conservation. Proposition 4, a voter-approved initiative allocating more than $800 million for habitat restoration, faced unexpected funding cuts earlier this year. DU volunteers and staff worked to educate lawmakers about the importance of fully funding conservation programs to protect critical waterfowl habitats.
“Advocacy Day is an important opportunity for Ducks Unlimited to ensure that California’s wetlands and waterfowl habitats remain a priority in public policy,” said DU Western Region Director of Operations Jeff McCreary. “The dedication of our volunteers is truly inspiring, and their efforts will leave a lasting impact for generations.”
DU staff also met with state officials, including Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) and Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-East Nicolaus), emphasizing the importance of preserving funding for wetland restoration projects.
Ducks Unlimited relies on its volunteer network to expand its mission, hosting more than 4,000 fundraising events annually, including banquets, shooting tournaments, and outdoor gatherings. These events help raise unrestricted funds, allowing DU to direct resources to high-priority conservation areas.
