Origin Story: Ducks Unlimited

Owen Gromme – Mallard in Morning Mist, 1967

The economic devastation of the Great Depression was amplified by the Dust Bowl in the 1920s and 1930s. The changes in regional weather, land policies, and agricultural and cultural factors created a desperate situation for farming families. It also wrecked numerous wetland habitats. One of the greatest hit species were ducks.

Seeing the decrease in waterfowl and their habitats, a group of sportsmen, including printing and publishing icon Joseph P. Knapp along with associates Robert Winthrop and E. H. Low, decided to take action. While discussing yet another less than ideal duck season and watching the terrain change for humans and animals alike, the group brainstormed the potential for a solution. With a mission to recover and conserve habitats, they created the incorporation of Ducks Unlimited in 1937.

For more than 80 years, Ducks Unlimited has focused their mission “to conserve, restore and manage wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people.”

By creating strategic, mutually beneficial relationships with entities such as private individuals, landowners, and scientific communities, Ducks Unlimited has been able to contribute to the conservation of more than 14 million acres across North America.

Duck Unlimited’s volunteer-based efforts are able to focus on specific initiatives such as the Conservation Priority Areas via the support of members throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. This support has resulted in continued education, fundraising efforts, and significant influence on administrative policies. All this effort goes to preserve what is left of the remaining half of original wetlands still in the United States and across the continent.

With such focus on preserving the homes to many creatures including the duck population, Penny Mustard Furnishings is excited to support these efforts with the upcoming Owen Gromme Master Print event. This exclusive event benefits Ducks Unlimited in Wisconsin and will be held at Penny Mustard Furnishings in Brookfield, WI February 28 through March 1.

For more information on the event, please visit www.ducksunlimited.art.