By Bruce Urben, WWA President
This article originally appeared in Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s January, 2023 Newsletter edition.
I hear many people asking, “Where did the year go?” Seems like the kids just went back to school after a quick summer break and then we were eating turkey, and all of a sudden we were putting up the Christmas tree. Our 60 day waterfowl season seems like it flew by and we are already planning on how we can “farm for ducks” in 2023.
Darrin Malsack (right), and Chris Salamone, enjoy a hunt in the new accessible blind built by WWA’s volunteers at Jackson Marsh WA this fall. Darrin and Chris were assisted by Tack Ross (the lab).
When I look back on WWA’s year in 2022, it may be the most rewarding year in our history for accomplishments. We have completed more habitat projects than ever before, we have completed a very successful second Waterfowl Hunters Expo, partnered with WDNR to hire a full time Wetland Ecologist to support Public Lands habitat evaluation for improvements and are embarking on an expanded Waterfowlers Academy that will include a strong diversity theme to expand those opportunities in this state. We have successfully advocated for Wisconsin’s waterfowlers in Madison and increased funding through the State Waterfowl Stamp. Great accomplishments!
How did we get there?
None of these things could have been accomplished without your help. Our volunteers are our most valuable resource. When there is a need, you step up to the plate with your talents, time and resources. These accomplishments are because of your hard work and passion for WWA’s mission.
While it is common to look back at the end of the year ,I am more excited to look forward to our future. With your help, I see even more firsts in 2023 and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish with your help.
THANK YOU to all our volunteers for your commitment to WWA and our members for your support. You can see that your work does make a difference… Happy New Year from all of us at WWA.