Sparks, NV— The Fowl Life, the leading force in waterfowl hunting and storytelling, is proud to spotlight the transformative work being done by the California Waterfowl Association (CWA) in the upcoming season. For years, The Fowl Life crew has stood shoulder to shoulder with CWA, supporting their tireless commitment to wetland conservation and restoration, waterfowl population enhancement, and preserving the future of hunting. Now, the upcoming season of The Fowl Life will give viewers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at two of CWA’s most impactful programs—the Wood Duck Program and the Hunt Program.

Chad Belding, leader of The Fowl Life and a passionate advocate for conservation and CWA’s programs, has one favorite program in particular—the wood duck program. This program is one of the most successful conservation efforts of its kind, driven by volunteers and landowners committed to restoring critical nesting habitats for this iconic species. It was set out in the early 90s to address the declining wood duck population. In this program, participants install and monitor specially designed nest boxes in areas where natural nesting sites have been lost due to habitat degradation. Each spring, these boxes provide a safe place for hens to raise their ducklings, significantly boosting local wood duck populations.

Belding stated, “This is one of the most remarkable conservation success stories in history. Hunters are so often misunderstood—portrayed as people who take from wildlife without giving back. But programs like this prove that the exact opposite is true. Without groups like CWA leading the charge, and without the dollars and dedication of hunters, species like the wood duck—once on the brink—might not be here today. California Waterfowl is one of the most driven, selfless organizations I’ve ever had the privilege to work alongside. They fight tirelessly for both hunters and the wildlife we cherish. Milestones like this simply wouldn’t happen without them.”

Since the program’s launch, CWA has officially hatched the one millionth wood duckling under their care and efforts through the installation and monitoring of nest boxes. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of targeted conservation efforts and community involvement, and The Fowl Life is thrilled to share the success story with its viewers.

"The wood duck program is the largest of its kind and is a great conservation success story. Over 25 years ago, as riparian habitats and natural nesting sites for wood ducks dwindled, CWA launched the Wood Duck Nest Box Program to provide critical nesting opportunities. Thanks to the dedication of hunters and conservation-minded volunteers, the program now produces more than 30,000 ducklings annually, and in 2024 we celebrated the monumental achievement of 1,000,000 ducklings hatched. It’s a huge conservation success led by California Waterfowl and our many wood duck volunteers.”

Scott Mueller, CWA

CWA’s Hunt Program will also take center stage in the upcoming season, showcasing its dedication to providing hunters with unique hunting opportunities. This program is unlike any other, as CWA not only manages its own properties but also partners with private landowners to create additional hunting access. The program then opens the door for members to have a chance at hunting on private-access land that would otherwise be non-existent.

"Access is one of the main reasons for people to stop hunting or, in many cases, from starting. The California Waterfowl Hunt Program tackles this head-on by providing quality hunting opportunities for more than 3,500 people annually, including new hunters, women, vets, mobility-impaired individuals, and youth. This program strengthens the hunting community, which is an essential advocate for wetland and waterfowl conservation.”

Jake Messerli, CEO of CWA

As a special part of The Hunt Program, CWA offers the Veteran Hunt Program, open to any veteran currently serving or who has served in the military, naval, or air service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. CWA is deeply invested in conservation, habitat restoration, and hunter education. Through initiatives like banding programs, wetland restoration projects, and legislative advocacy, the future of waterfowl hunting in California is no doubt in good hands.

The upcoming season of The Fowl Life will shine an exclusive spotlight on these remarkable efforts, reinforcing California Waterfowl Association’s commitment to both wildlife conservation and the hunting community.

Listen to The Fowl Life podcast and watch The Fowl Life on The Outdoor Channel to learn more and support CWA's ongoing efforts.

For more information on The Fowl Life, visit thefowllife.com and follow The Fowl Life on Instagram, Camospace, and Facebook at @thefowllifetv.

To learn more about California Waterfowl, visit calwaterfowl.org and follow them on Instagram (@calwaterfowl) and Facebook (@CaliforniaWaterfowl).