Delta Waterfowl’s Spring Issue Goes ‘Chasing Canvasbacks’

BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA — Want more canvasbacks? Of course you do! But how do we measure “more” as it relates to duckling survival? Delta’s science team is striving to answer that question, using techniques with the potential to shape and enhance the future of canvasback conservation.

In the Spring 2025 Issue of Delta Waterfowl magazine, award-winning journalist Paul Wait’s cover story, “Chasing Canvasbacks,” takes you inside the efforts of Delta’s science team and graduate students. From attaching temporary nasal saddles to nesting hens to keeping tabs on their broods using drone-mounted cameras, you’ll relish this window into Delta’s effort to better chart the success of nesting canvasbacks.

Join Delta Waterfowl today to ensure that you receive this must-read issue! Call (888) 987-3695 or visit deltawaterfowl.org/memberships.

Keeping with the duck production theme, “Hatch-Boosting Habitats” by Delta staff writer Christy Sweigart details the wetland habitats that are most vital to your favorite species. Sweigart also highlights the work of The Duck Hunters Organization to maximize duck production on these critical landscapes.

Sweigart also penned this issue’s Duckology column, “A Drake’s Duties,” which details the essential roles played by greenheads in duck production.

Eager for spring hunting seasons? Field editor Brad Fenson reveals the tactics to turn a flurry of snow geese into a full-on blizzard. And new contributor Jeff Johnston offers sage advice for easily turning any duck gun into a turkey hunting setup and back again.

Here’s a piece that will engage the mind: “Romance Lost?” by editor Kyle Wintersteen explores whether waterfowling in a connected world has led us astray from its simplest and most appealing charms. Importantly, Wintersteen considers how the answer could affect the future of duck hunting in North America.

A related piece, “The No-Worries Waterfowler,” presents a character portrait of a stress-free duck hunter that’s sure to provoke both thought and laughter—a satisfying blend of emotions that field editor Nate Corley’s prose regularly delivers.

The spring issue’s striking cover image is the perfect introduction to an issue that’s bursting with world-class photography. The work of award-winning photographer Gary Kramer highlights the salty pursuit of king eiders in the issue’s photo feature. And in “The ‘Waterfowler’s Waterfowler,’” you’ll savor the richly painted works by the late, famed waterfowl artist, Dave Hagerbaumer.

As always, the Spring Issue carries a full slate of informative and entertaining columns such as Duck Dogs, Shotgunning, Strategies, and Waterfowl Chef to help you get the most from your waterfowl season.

The only way to receive Delta Waterfowl magazine is to join The Duck Hunters Organization. If you’re a member, we appreciate your support. Your copy of the Spring Issue is on the way!

To join Delta Waterfowl, call (888) 987-3695 or visit deltawaterfowl.org/memberships.

Delta Waterfowl is The Duck Hunters Organization, a leading conservation group working to produce ducks and secure the future of waterfowl hunting in North America. Visit deltawaterfowl.org.

Delta Waterfowl Magazine

Delta’s outstanding membership magazine is published 5 times a year to celebrate the rich traditions of waterfowl hunting throughout the United States and Canada. In addition, the magazine keeps members and supporters informed about the important conservation work The Duck Hunters Organization is doing for ducks and duck hunters.

To join Delta Waterfowl, call (888) 987-3695 or visit deltawaterfowl.org/memberships.