On the recordJanuary 31, 2012
It is so true that ``to whom much is given, much is required,'' especially when it comes to ensuring the blessings of creation for our children and grandchildren. Seventy-five years ago, a group of concerned citizens came together to offer their time, talents, and treasures to protect waterfowl populations and preserve wetland habitats. Ducks Unlimited has a purposed beginning. During the 1937 Dust Bowl, drought-plagued waterfowl populations were at unprecedented lows. Recognizing the waterfowl were dangerously near to unrecoverable populations, a small group of sportsmen organized themselves and got to work. Over the past 75 years, the members of Ducks Unlimited have worked to conserve, restore, and manage habitats essential to the well-being of our continent's waterfowl populations. Through public-private partnerships and the hard work of Ducks Unlimited volunteers throughout the country, more than 12 million acres across North America have been preserved. Madam Speaker, it never ceases to amaze me how the citizenry, bound together by common dedication, determination, and focus, and not by government fiat, can change the world. Ducks Unlimited has spent the last 75 years improving water quality, mitigating the effects of floods, safeguarding and expanding recreational opportunities. They are to be commended for their 75 years. ____________________
