By Bruce Ross, Executive Director bross@wisducks.org
This article originally appeared in Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s September, 2024 Newsletter edition.
August was such a busy month that we didn’t get a chance to put out a newsletter! Of course we had our normal events going on — shoots and banquets (and a golf outing). But there was a lot more too.
We were busy with legislative council study on sandhill cranes (SHC). This is an important step for the legislature (and DNR) to consider a sustainable and ethical sandhill hunt in the state. Lots of great information beginning to get in front of decision makers. And check out an editorial that was recently published around the state that makes the case for a SHC hunt in Wisconsin. Check out this article to learn more, including WWA’s official position on a hunt.
I also had the neat opportunity for a trip to Baton Rouge to check out Delta’s Waterfowl Expo. We can learn a lot by comparing what they do with their EXPO against how we put one on. Delta’s EXPO was very impressive — an amazing collection of vendors/exhibitors and glitzy booths and displays. And VERY well run! While I was there, Delta presented WWA with its “Partner in Conservation Award! I was very tickled that this well-respected international brand would associate their brand with ours, through that award. [picture of presentation to Ross]
Of course, then we had our own Waterfowl Hunters EXPO to put on — and what a great day that was!!! Bigger and better than ever — and the numbers prove it!
August 24th was kind of a crazy (good) kind of Saturday…. Not only did the EXPO go swimmingly, but we also received word that we were being recognized as the 2024 recipient of the International Bluewing Teal Award through the US Fish and Wildlife Service! This is a big deal.
No rest for the weary, I also prepped the skiff for the season. I got out for the first two days of the teal season to get my dog Tack ready for the main event in a month. He hasn’t lost a step. But maybe I should have spent more time at the sporting clays course this summer. This is the look I got when I missed a shot.