By Bruce Urben, President
This article originally appeared in Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s December Volunteer Newsletter edition.
Duck season officially closed fifteen days ago and I know many waterfowlers are already going through duck hunting “withdrawal”. As I see it, duck hunting withdrawal includes waking up early without the aid of an alarm, mindlessly continuing to check the wind direction and speed on your weather app., looking into the sky routinely checking for birds, and finally, keeping the charger plugged in on your boat battery in the garage. Time is the only prescription to ease these symptoms, unless you can look forward to an upcoming southern hunt.
Good news though, you can get a dose of all things waterfowl at the upcoming WWA State Meeting on Saturday, January 25th. Mark your calendars to attend our 35th Statewide meeting at Lambeau Field’s Legend room in Green Bay.
Help us to celebrate the new inductees into WWA’s 4th Annual Hall of Fame Class. These sponsors, staff and volunteers have helped shape your organization over the years. Applaud the chapters who have accomplished their goals/super goals in fundraising this year and also learn through our slate of presentations by state experts on waterfowl, wetlands, season structure and duck research going on locally.
Dr. Sarah Orlofske will be one of WWA’s keynote speakers at our January 25th Annual Meeting
Our speaker list is impressive and includes:
- Taylor Finger, Migratory Waterfowl Biologist with WDNR, presenting information on upcoming season options and waterfowl harvest information.
- Dr. Drew Fowler, WDNR Waterfowl and Migratory Gamebird Research Scientist presenting information on his current mallard/woodduck research projects.
- Tracy Hames, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Wetlands Association, talking about the importance of wetlands in Wisconsin for wildlife habitat.
- Dr. Sarah Orlofske, Assistant Professor and Curator of Animal Parasites at UW Stevens Point, presenting “Waterfowl Parasites, the Good, Bad and New” along with Dr. Robert Jadin, visiting Professor of Vertebrate Biology at UW Eau Claire.
A great slate of speakers for you to learn more about our habitat, waterfowl and regulations. You’ll be able to sign up soon online to attend, look for the invite in your email inbox. Celebrate WWA’s 2019 accomplishments, learn about current research and projects by state professionals, enjoy a packer tailgate lunch at the legendary Lambeau Field, meet and enjoy fellowship with your WWA volunteer peers, and certainly learn more about your opportunities to be involved with your Association.
The perfect prescription to cure duck hunting withdrawal!
From all of us at WWA, have a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. See you at Lambeau January 25th!