Delta Delivery Site in Saskatchewan Increases Efficiency and Effectiveness of Duck Production Efforts

This distribution hub provides storage and loading capacity in closer proximity to Delta Hen House delivery sites, reduces costs

With all eyes on the upcoming winter field season, Delta’s programs staff is working to recruit new Hen House contractors and distribute materials. To help streamline the distribution process, Delta secured a storage and loading location in central Saskatchewan. This hub helps the Duck Hunters Organization distribute Hen Houses—cylindrical nesting structures that provide ducks with an elevated place to lay eggs, out of reach of many predators—in the most effective and efficient way.

“Our hub is centrally located in the heart of our Hen House target areas and some of the best waterfowl breeding habitat in North America. It currently serves as a distribution center for Hen House contractors in both Alberta and Saskatchewan,” said Matt Chouinard, waterfowl programs director for Delta. “Our contractors can get their Hen Houses in a timely manner, so they’re ready to be installed as soon as the ice on the wetlands is thick enough for travel.”

In August, the materials for 1,760 Hen Houses were delivered to the hub and distribution has already begun to contractors in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The installation of these Hen Houses will occur over the approaching winter to guarantee that they’re ready to welcome nesting ducks come spring. Moving forward, similar shipments will be managed through the site as Duck Production efforts continue to ramp up with the delivery of Delta’s Million Duck Campaign.

“This distribution hub provides storage and loading capacity in closer proximity to our delivery sites, reducing shipping and delivery costs,” said Chouinard. “We also store extra materials, tools, and equipment at the hub to be ready as needed by our contractors.”

Aside from Hen House deliveries, the Saskatchewan site is also a key “home base” for coordinating Hen House construction and Predator Management efforts in the Canadian prairies. As Delta’s Duck Production programs grow, similar facilities will be added when and where necessary across the prairie pothole region.

To learn more about Delta’s Hen House research and how these structures positively impact duck production, explore: What is a Delta Hen House?