Hadwick Selects Ducks Unlimited as AD1 Nonprofit of the Year
The assemblywoman recognized the organization for its wetland conservation leadership in Northern California.
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Left to right: Public Policy Chairman Andrew Foraker, Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick, and State Chairman Adam Parrish at the state capitol.
DISTRICT 1 — Members of the California Legislature recognize a nonprofit organization each year for its lasting impact in local communities. This year, Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick selected Ducks Unlimited as the Nonprofit of the Year for Assembly District 1.
Ducks Unlimited is a nonprofit conservation organization founded in 1937. Sportsmen created the group during the Dust Bowl era to address declining waterfowl populations by conserving wetlands. The organization conserves, restores, and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These efforts have protected or restored more than 19 million acres across the continent.
Ducks Unlimited partners with farmers, tribes, conservation groups, and public agencies throughout California and the Pacific Flyway. The Pacific Flyway ranks as one of the most important migratory bird corridors in North America. In the Sacramento Valley, the group works with local rice farmers to transform post-harvest fields into vital winter feeding grounds for millions of migrating waterfowl.
Ducks Unlimited also supports North State traditions through youth hunting opportunities, shooting sports, and waterfowl conservation education. Northern California offers some of the best waterfowl hunting in the country. These outdoor activities contribute to the region’s economy, heritage, and way of life.
One of the group’s major projects involves the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. The effort represents the largest freshwater wetland restoration project in the western United States. Restoration work will create critical habitat for migratory waterfowl while improving water quality and ecosystem health across the region.
“For decades, Ducks Unlimited has been a driving force in protecting the natural resources that make the North State so special,” said Assemblywoman Hadwick. “Their work not only supports wildlife and conservation but also strengthens our farming communities, water resources, outdoor heritage, and local economy. They are a true example of what community partnership and stewardship look like.”
“In the North State, conservation and agriculture go hand in hand with our outdoor traditions,” Hadwick added. “Ducks Unlimited understands that protecting wetlands also means preserving opportunities for future generations to experience hunting, conservation, and responsible stewardship of our natural resources.”