Episode 32 - Protect the Prairie Pothole Region: Duck Stamps, Wetlands, and Waterfowl Conservation with Scott Stephens

The future of North America’s waterfowl may depend on protecting the prairie potholes today. What happens to duck populations when the wetlands and grasslands they depend on disappear? Sam Soholt sits down with Scott Stephens, Senior Director of Conservation Strategy at Ducks Unlimited, to dig into the science, funding, and conservation work behind North America’s waterfowl habitat. Scott explains why the Prairie Pothole Region is so important to breeding ducks, how wetland and grassland easements protect critical habitat, and why intermittent wetlands can be far more valuable than they look from a tractor cab. The conversation also breaks down the Federal Duck Stamp, where those dollars go, and why buying an extra stamp can support habitat even if you never hunt waterfowl. They get into the challenges facing wetlands, the cost difference between protecting existing habitat and restoring drained ground, and how partnerships between Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Delta Waterfowl, federal agencies, landowners, and private donors can stretch conservation dollars much further. Scott also explains the less visible side of conservation, from policy and landowner relationships to fundraising and communications, and why those efforts matter when millions of acres are at stake. For duck hunters, pheasant hunters, and anyone who cares about healthy landscapes, this is a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep birds on the ground and wetlands on the map. Follow the show for more conversations about hunting, fishing, and the people shaping the outdoors. Get more from Field & Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/ Get to know your host, Sam Soholt: https://www.instagram.com/samsoholt/ Check out Jay Beyer’s work: https://www.jaybeyer.com/              Join the F&S 1871 Club and experience a membership dedicated to the outdoor culture of sporting traditions, storytelling, and the conservation of our lands: https://www.fieldandstream.com/1871-club/  This podcast is powered by Moultrie, the official trail camera of Field & Stream: https://www.moultrie.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices