Podcast appearances and mentions of mike brasher

"There's nothing adaptive about AHM!" Why is this viewpoint wrong?  "Follow the science!" Why is it not that simple? On this episode, Kayci Messerly and Dr. Mike Brasher go on location at the US Geological Survey Eastern Ecological Science Center to visit with Dr. Mike Runge, quantitative ecologist, to learn about the unparalleled history and legacy of the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in making North American waterfowl management the envy of the world. Home to the Bird Banding Lab, Waterfowl Breeding Population Surveys, Harvest Surveys, and Adaptive Harvest Management, the federal scientists who have walked the halls of Patuxent are giants in their field and have answered some of America's most pressing questions in wildlife management. Yet this expertise extends beyond waterfowl and includes pivotal work on the recovery of the endangered whooping crane, lead poisoning, DDT, moist-soil management, and much more. Listen, learn, and appreciate the incredible science of Patuxent.The history of Patuxent: https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/cir1422Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher and Kayci Messerly sit down with Dr. Tony Celis-Murillo and Dr. Lauren Walker of the USGS Bird Banding Lab (BBL) for a deep dive into the history and legacy of bird banding. They explore the function of the BBL, the vital roles of its staff, and how banding data contribute to our understanding of waterfowl populations, migration patterns, and annual harvest regulations. From reward bands to surprising recoveries, Tony and Lauren bring to life the science and dedication involved in banding efforts and the role they play in migratory bird management. Along the way, they share jaw-dropping facts that highlight just how many bands are out there and the insights these bands provide. This episode offers an inspiring look at the people and efforts behind one of America's most important wildlife monitoring programs. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Dr. Lisa Kercher, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, joins Dr. Mike Brasher and Kayci Messerly for a lesson in Virology 101 and an update on the hunt for genetic changes in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Learn about the process of reassortment, how it produces new viruses, and how these changes influence the evolving risks of HPAI. Dr. Kercher also shares stories from her mobile testing lab (BIRDWATCH), including experiences and anxious days in the field with duck researchers and banding crews and how her work is accelerating the detection of HPAI and viral changes in wild ducks. Listen in for a deeper understanding of the avian influenza virus and how hunters can continue playing a vital role.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Since 1970, North America has lost nearly 3 billion birds, and while ducks and geese have long been a bright spot, their lights are dimming. On this co-branded episode, join Ramsey Russell of "It's Duck Season Somewhere," as he interviews Dr. Mike Brasher and breaks down bird declines by major groupings and explains why birds are disappearing—some faster than others. Also discussed are the challenges of celebrating successes without become complacent and a reminder that hunter-funded conservation matters now more than ever. Amid these declines, what can be done to bring them back?Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgDownload the report: https://www.stateofthebirds.org/2025/

North America has lost nearly 3 billion—that's BILLION with a B—birds, and while ducks are the brightest spot on the horizon, their lights are dimming. Dr. Mike Brasher of Ducks Unlimited breaks down bird declines by major groupings, explains why birds are disappearing—some faster than others—describes why hunter-funded conservation still matters now more than ever, and shares his thoughts on what it'll take to bring them back.   ------------   Learn More: State of the Birds Report https://www.stateofthebirds.org/2025/ ------------     Visit the Brands That Make MOJO's Duck Season Somewhere Podcast Possible: MOJO Outdoors  Alberta Professional Outfitters Society Benelli Shotguns BOSS Shotshells Bow and Arrow Outdoors Ducks Unlimited  Flash Back Decoys GetDucks.com HuntProof Premium Waterfowl App Inukshuk Professional Dog Food  onX Maps  Use code GetDucks25 Sitka Gear Tom Beckbe USHuntList.com Voormi   Like what you heard? Let us know! • Tap Subscribe so you never miss an episode. • Drop a rating—it's like a high-five in the duck blind. • Leave a quick comment: What hit home? What made you laugh? What hunt did it remind you of? • Share this episode with a buddy who lives for duck season.   Want to partner? Have or know a story to share? Contact: Ramsey Russell —ramsey@getducks.com

Duck hunters are skilled at finding scapegoats as to why their seasons don't go so well. One of the hotter topics is the amount of and the ability to hunt over flooded crops. Namely corn. Is it legal? Should it be legal? When was it allowed? Who governs “normal agricultural practices”? Mike Brasher of Ducks Unlimited joins the show to break down the Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act of 1998 and clarify what it did and didn't do for duck hunting. Changes to U.S. Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations on Baiting Laws - DU MagazineThanks to our sponsors: Sitka Gear, Perfect Limit Outdoors, Ducks Unlimited, Purina Pro Plan, Lile Real Estate, Tom Beckbe and Greenhead: The Arkansas Duck Hunting Magazine.Send us a textAll Rights Reserved. Please subscribe, rate and share The Standard Sportsman podcast.

It's springtime, which means ducks are migrating north to their breeding grounds and hunters are wondering what they'll encounter when they get there. Dr. Scott Stephens joins Dr. Mike Brasher for an update on breeding habitat conditions across the prairies, boreal forest, and Alaska, including prognostications of what he expects to hear once the survey results are released later this year. And yes, Breeding Population surveys are expected to happen, but the long-term future is uncertain. Join this episode for early insights on what the ducks might be encountering and why maps still can't take the place of boots on the ground.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

So, you found yourself with a mallard or Canada goose nesting in your flowerpot.  Why is this happening, what should you know, and what are your options?  Join the DU Podcast as hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher share their answers to these questions and more, when discussing urban nesting waterfowl.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher discuss waterfowl mating systems and how behavior changes related to mating and courtship directly impact hunting as the season progresses. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

For the first time in decades, American duck hunters will have the opportunity to legally harvest three pintails during the 2025–26 season due to a new interim pintail harvest strategy that was approved in 2024. On this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by state migratory bird managers Brandon Reishus (Oregon) and Mike Szymanski (North Dakota) to discuss this new strategy and what it means going forward. Duck hunters have been asking lots of questions about the new strategy, and this episode aims to answer them. Why was a new strategy needed, and how did hunters contribute to the data that made it possible? Why are liberal regulations being offered when the pintail population is near historic lows? What are the objectives of the new strategy? How will it be evaluated? Why does the new strategy not include sex restrictions? How and when will the strategy be evaluated? Lastly, why is habitat conservation ultimately more important than harvest regulations for the future of pintail populations?Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher debunk the myth of the northern, or “red leg” mallard, and discuss an interesting taxonomic issue related to a North American waterfowl species. Download and subscribe to follow along with all things waterfowl as the DU Podcast brings the resource to you.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Matt Harrison is joined by renowned wild turkey scientist Dr. Mike Chamberlain (@wildturkeydoc) and Dr. Mike Brasher to announce wildturkeyDNA, a new partnership that will enlist hunters in the study of wild turkey genetics. Building from the success of duckDNA, this exciting project brings together DU, Wild Turkey Lab, National Wild Turkey Federation, Low Country Game Bird Foundation, and the University of Texas at El Paso around a shared interest in science to inform conservation. Year 1 will focus on collecting tissue from harvested turkeys having unique or odd plumages to understand the origin of these beautiful birds. Are they color morphs of wild turkeys or do they originate from heritage breeds? Tune in to hear how you can participate and learn about additional questions that will be answered in future years. Visit www.wildturkeyDNA.com and follow the team on Instagram and Facebook (@wildturkeydna) for updates and announcements.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

The U.S. State of the Birds is a report developed every 2–3 years by a veritable who's who of bird-related agencies and organizations. The goal is to provide an update on the status and health of America's birds, to celebrate successes, highlight concerning trends, and inspire solutions for the widespread challenges our feathered friends are facing. The 2025 report builds on past reports but again documents widespread declines across nearly every bird group. While ducks and wetland birds remain above historical levels, demonstrating the success of partner-based conservation, recent drought-induced declines remind us of the importance of not letting off the gas. In this podcast crossover episode, American Birding Podcast host Nate Swick welcomes Mike Brasher of Ducks Unlimited and the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, Amanda Rodewald of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and Bradley Wilkinson of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies to talk about the report and what birders and hunters can do to support bird science and conservation.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Hosts Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings are joined by Dr. Mark Lindberg, professor at University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Institute of Arctic Biology to discuss the ways hunters play a vital role in citizen-science programs. Banding, HIP, and other various programs are supported by hunters, and are crucial to waterfowl science. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

duckDNA recently concluded its second season, which brought continued enthusiasm from hunters and several never-before-seen hybrids! On this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by conservation science assistants, Kayci Messerly and Katie Tucker, and Dr. Phil Lavretsky to share initial results from season 2 while discussing genetic mysteries uncovered through the analysis of several unique hybrid ducks. Also discussed are behind-the-scenes interactions with participating hunters and the potential future of duckDNA. Thanks to hunters for their support and participation and a special thanks to our year 2 funding partners -- Pinola Conservancy, Rice Pond Preserve, and Brian Hornung.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In the final installment of this special series on waterfowl harvest estimation, Drs. Kathy Fleming and Paul Padding discuss the 2 critical surveys that are part of this process:  Migratory Bird Hunter Survey and Parts Collection Survey.  This episode sheds light on how these data are collected and used, and why none of this would be possible without the interest, cooperation, and participation by hunters. This is episode 3 of a 3-part series.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In part 2 of this series on waterfowl harvest estimation, Drs. Kathy Fleming and Paul Padding go in-depth on the Harvest Information Program, known to most people simply as “HIP,” to explain how it works and how the data are used to select hunters for participating in the core surveys from which harvest is estimated. We also discuss additional uses of waterfowl harvest data. This is episode 2 of a 3-part series.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Ducks Unlimited Podcast: Season Wrap-Up Live StreamHosts: Dr. Mike Brasher, Katie Burke, Matt HarrisonLocation: Ducks Unlimited HQ, Memphis, TNPresented by: Purina ProPlan & Bird Dog Whiskey

What do eiders eat, how do they feed, why is their poop so stinky, how do they taste, how many are there, and what are the most pressing conservation concerns affecting them? These and other questions are explored as Kate Martin and Dr. Sarah Gutowsky rejoin Dr. Mike Brasher to wrap up our common eider species profile. Also discussed is new research that is improving our knowledge of eider population trends and identifying important breeding and winter sites. New telemetry results are revealing fascinating insights about eider migration, and we learn of the important cultural and economic tie between common eiders and local communities, including why an eider down duvet could set you back $10,000!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

@thefowlhunter sits down this week with Ducks Unlimited's Senior Waterfowl Scientist, Mike Brasher, to discuss this year's season and some of the key elements that could play a part in the Mallard Duck's migration. Billy reached out initially to find out more about recent information on DNA studies stating the amount of farm ducks breeding with wild mallards was changing the migration, Mike enlightens us on this topic as well as in some other areas and what DU is doing to support conservation. Subscribe here and the the Dr Duck YouTube channel and follow our journey all season long #enjoythejourney

Waterfowl hunters harvest 12–14 million ducks and 3 million geese annually in the U.S.  The process used to estimate annual waterfowl harvest has several components and relies on the cooperation and participation by State wildlife agencies, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and most importantly waterfowl hunters. Drs. Kathy Fleming and Paul Padding of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service join Dr. Mike Brasher to help explain the harvest estimation process and some of the important uses of these estimates. This is episode 1 of a 3-part series. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Common eiders are the largest duck in the Northern Hemisphere, with some tipping the scales at nearly 6 pounds. They are also the most widely distributed and heavily harvested sea duck in the world. In North America alone, there are 4 subspecies of the common eider. On this episode, Dr. Sarah Gutowsky and Kate Martin join Dr. Mike Brasher for Part One of our in depth discussion about this highly prized bird. This episode covers all the basics, including how to identify them, where they breed and winter, what their nests look like, and what we've learned from recent research about their ecology and unexpected shenanigans during the nesting season. Tune in for a wealth of information as we lay the foundation for even more discussions to come.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP66 How Fast Can They Fly and Other Insights From GPS Telemetry. If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now's your chance!Mike Casazza rejoins the show to continue our discussion about cutting edge radio telemetry and its importance to waterfowl science. Specific topics on this episode include new estimates of waterfowl flight speed and why this is important, unexpected movements and behaviors of waterfowl, and what a hunter should do if they harvest a bird outfitted with a transmitter.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Dr. Jared Henson and co-host Dr. Mike Brasher discuss the concluding days of duck season in the Southern states, highlighting the impact of recent cold weather on duck migration patterns. Joining the conversation is special guest, Jim Ronquest, a seasoned river hunter, who shares his insights and experiences from the field. They delve into the challenges and adventures of hunting along rivers, emphasizing the unique hazards such as fluctuating water levels and debris. Tune in for entertaining stories and valuable tips for navigating the complexities of river hunting during this critical time of year. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

The DU Podcast finally connects with our friends in the West, as Dr. Mike Brasher speaks with Dr. Fritz Reid, Dr. Dan Smith, Kelly Warren, and Kyle Spragens to hear about waterfowl migration, habitat conditions, and hunting stories from the Pacific Flyway. From California to Washington, reports suggest an overall “hit or miss” season, with sporadic success influenced by weather systems that altered habitat conditions and redistributed birds. Our guests also share stories of memorable hunts that included stormy weather, hybrid ducks, scattered ashes, family memories, and a university hunt camp with an Alma Matter. Lastly, fingers are crossed for a shift in the weather to improve hunting prospects as the season draws to a close.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP65 Radio Telemetry In Waterfowl Research. If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now's your chance!Since its introduction to wildlife research in the mid-20th century, radio telemetry has enabled scientists and conservationists to understand waterfowl behaviors and ecology at levels previously not imagined. In this episode, co-hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher are joined by Research Biologist Mike Casazza to learn about the history, advancements, capabilities, and unique insights obtained from modern-day radio telemetry. Download and subscribe to follow along with all things waterfowl as the DU Podcast brings the resource to you.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Sydnie Wells, Jack Orlandi, and Luke Corniea from Barstool Outdoors join host Matt Harrison to share their exciting waterfowl hunts on the Great Salt Lake. From airboat rides to coffin blinds and black silhouettes, they dive into the unique experience of this incredible region. Midway through the episode, biologist Coryna Hebert and Dr. Mike Brasher provide expert conservation insights, including discussions about declining water levels of the Great Salt Lake and how DU is mobilizing millions of dollars to ensure the future health of this landscape for waterfowl, hunters, and other people.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Tune in as Dr. Mike Brasher teams up with top meteorologists to analyze the 2025 New Year weather patterns that could make all the difference on your next duck hunt! Whether you're an experienced hunter or just starting out, this live stream will arm you with crucial weather intel to help you plan your best days in the field. Don't miss out on expert insights that could shape your success this season! Our Special Guests:

A new year brings new questions and more insights to the topic of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by leading experts in the field of avian influenza, Dr. Dave Stallknecht, Dr. Richard Webby, and Dr. Jennifer Ballard to discuss the current status of avian influenza, what we've learned since 2022, and what we still don't understand. Recent changes have been noted in the genetic code of the circulating virus, but what does this mean for the risk it poses to birds, mammals, and humans? How do we study these changes? What waterfowl species are most affected, and do we understand why these effects differ among species? Also discussed is recent science about risks to hunting dogs, what hunters need to do if they observe sick or dead birds, why hunters should be vigilant about being tested for avian flu if they feel ill, and how we can all work to reduce the likelihood of the virus becoming more severe. Tune in for an information-packed episode that is of growing relevance to everyone.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In this science-heavy episode, Dr. Heath Hagy and Mike Brasher take a deep dive into duck foraging ecology, how we study it, and why it's important for effective habitat management and conservation planning. Using entertaining analogies of crowded buffet tables and Thanksgiving feasts, we learn about complexities of foraging decisions and why feeding behavior doesn't always indicate food in the water.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some festive cocktails? For our Christmas episode, we'll be joined by special guests from Old Dominick's, a craft distillery in Memphis known for its delicious spirits and commitment to sustainability, who share some of their favorite holiday cocktail recipes to pair with wild game. So grab your shaker and join us as we raise a glass to wetlands conservation and the holiday season. Cheers!https://olddominick.com/www.ducks.org.DUPodcast

Welcome to a festive Christmas special of the Ducks Unlimited podcast! Join hosts Dr. Mike Brasher, Katie Burke, and Dr. Jared Henson as they celebrate the holiday season with special guest Malcom Reed from "How to BBQ Right." Malcom brings his expertise in barbecue and shares his experiences and favorite recipes, perfect for hunting camp and duck camp. Listen in for a delightful conversation filled with holiday cheer, barbecue tips, and memorable Christmas stories.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP335 Grassroots Journey to Becoming a Better Cook of Wild Game. If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now's your chance!Dr. Jean Michel DeVink, DU Canada's National Manager of Conservation Planning, joins the DU Podcast to share bits of scientific expertise and culinary insights from his journey to becoming a better cook of wild game. We discuss an introductory fajita recipe, slow-cooking goose legs, wild game during the holiday season, and other elements that even the most seasoned chefs will appreciate.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP289: Species Profile Green Wing Teal. If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now's your chance!Green-winged teal are the smallest of our North American dabbling ducks with a short neck and small bill. Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings go into the details about this fascinating species. The pair discuss the species' breeding habits, migrating, and wintering distribution. Prized by hunters for their abundance and as table fare, there's a lot to learn about Green-wings.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, host Katie Burke and co-host Dr. Mike Brasher are joined by decoy expert Colin McNair of Copley Fine Art Auctions, marking his fifth appearance on the show. Together, they dive into the captivating world of decoy art, focusing on the groundbreaking practice of x-raying decoys to uncover hidden details of craftsmanship. Discover how visual aids and cutting-edge techniques bring new insights to this timeless art form, and hear Colin's expert take on what makes these pieces so unique. Whether you're a seasoned collector, an art enthusiast, or simply curious, this episode is packed with fascinating stories and insider knowledge you won't want to miss.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP275: Species Profile Blue Wing Teal. If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now's your chance!Hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher join forces to bring you the first in a series of species profiles covering our North American waterfowl. The blue-winged teal enjoys the spotlight in this episode. One of our most unique dabbling ducks, spending summer in the prairies and winter in the mangroves of Mexico, bluewings are the last to arrive on the breeding grounds and the first to head south, providing hunters with an early opportunity to return afield after a long hot summer. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

CLICK HERE FOR ORIGINAL VIDEO:Join Dr. Mike Brasher, Dr. Scott Stephens and Meteorologist Mandy Bailey as they break down the upcoming weather patterns during early December 2024 that could make or break your next duck hunt!

We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP288: Wildfire and Duck Science in the Borel Forest. If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now's your chance!The Canadian Boreal Forest is an important breeding region for many species of ducks, but it is regularly influenced by wildfire and other disturbances. Moriah Tanguay, a master's student and DU Fellowship winner from the University of Saskatchewan, joins the podcast to discuss how her research is helping answer questions about how these disturbances may affect scaup and scoters, and what it means for DU conservation in the Boreal Forest. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Join us for a special Thanksgiving episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Mike Brasher, this episode features a lively discussion with co-hosts Katie Burke, Dr. Scott Stevens, and Dr. Jerad Henson, along with our special guest host, Kevin Woods, Senior Designer at Ducks Unlimited. In this episode, we dive into everything Thanksgiving, from the age-old debate of whether turkey is overrated to the best ways to enjoy leftovers. We share our favorite Thanksgiving traditions, discuss the stress of holiday travel versus post-election family gatherings, and even tackle the controversial topic of cranberry sauce—canned or homemade? As we sip on some festive cocktails, we explore unique Thanksgiving hacks, the best waterfowl substitutes for turkey, and the must-have side dishes that could cause a riot if missing from the table. Plus, we touch on the latest waterfowl weather updates and what to expect for the upcoming hunting season. Whether preparing for a big family feast or just looking to enjoy some holiday banter, this episode is packed with fun, laughter, and a few surprises. Don't miss out on the festive spirit—tune in now! Topics Covered:Turkey: Overrated or underrated?Cranberry sauce: Canned vs. homemadeThanksgiving traditions and hacksBest waterfowl substitutes for turkeyHoliday travel stress vs. family gatheringsWaterfowl weather updatesCheers to a Happy Thanksgiving!

On this special episode, Dr. Mike Brasher visits with Jay Anglin, DU Waterfowl 360 Migration Editor for the Great Lakes, and Mark Holley, chief meteorologist for WSAW-TV in Wausau, Wisconsin, about recent changes to weather conditions, bird movements, and hunter success across the Great Lakes. After a slow season across much of the region, Anglin reports that activity in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio is finally “heating up” thanks to a weather system that is bringing colder temps and windier conditions. Holley gives the meteorological details around what's driving the change and gives an optimistic report that we may see unsettled weather and colder temperatures continuing into early December. The timing couldn't be better for southern and mid-latitude duck hunters! Happy Hunting, y'all!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Ten years ago, a harmful algal bloom in western Lake Erie forced the city of Toledo to issue a “do not drink” advisory for its water supply. Now, Ohio is home to one of the most transformational wetland restoration programs in America. This program, known as H2Ohio, is using wetland restoration and other practices to reduce nutrient flows into Lake Erie and improving the quality of water for its citizens. In this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher sits down with DU regional biologists, Russ Terry and Corey VanStratt, and Eric Saas of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to discuss DU's involvement in delivering H2Ohio and how it is producing not only cleaner water, but more habitat for ducks and additional places for hunting.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Join Dr. Mike Brasher and three expert meteorologists as they break down the upcoming weather patterns that could make or break your next duck hunt!

The Prairie Pothole Region is DU's highest priority landscape, as it supports over 50 percent of breeding ducks in North America annually. On this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Scott Stephens and Graydon Garner, agricultural programs and extension specialist for DU Canada, to highlight the activities used to conserve grasslands and wetland in prairie Alberta. From forage conversion to wetland restoration and permanent protection of intact habitats, DU applies a diverse portfolio of conservation on the prairies, as we seek solutions that benefit agricultural producers and ranchers while improving the landscape for ducks. But to begin, Graydon provides an update on wetland conditions on the prairies and highlights the need for additional precipitation to improve conditions heading into 2025.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

After a behind-the-scenes tour of their shot shell manufacturing facility in East Alton, Illinois, Dr. Mike Brasher sits down with Nate Robinson, Ben Frank, and Grant Jeremiah from Winchester Ammunition to discuss how a long-standing passion for waterfowl hunting has helped Winchester become the most trusted name in waterfowl ammunition. From Dry-Lok to Blindside and new waterfowl loads such as Bismuth and Last Call TSS, the group discusses the innovation behind these products, their commitment to quality, and the design and testing that makes them the best in the business: Winchester Ammunition – the official ammunition of Ducks Unlimited and our proud partner in conservation.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Join Dr. Scott Stephens, Dr. Mike Brasher, and ultra special guest Dr. Brian Davis for storytelling of days gone by and a report on hunting and habitat conditions from one end of the Mississippi Flyway to the other. Warm weather has kept wetlands open and birds around in the Canadian prairies, and when coupled with light hunting pressure, hunting success has been good. Conditions for early white-front hunting in Arkansas have also been dry, but with young birds around, Dr. Davis reports of good hunting success. The conversation then turns to changes in rice production, how this has affected food resources for wintering waterfowl, and what other changes may lie ahead in the future.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Dr. Mike Brasher is on location with Fred Zink Jr., co-host of DU TV and owner of Avian-X and Zink Call, and John Simpson, manager of Winous Point Shooting Club, for an early-season migration update and a discussion about the history of waterfowl hunting in northwestern Ohio. The group reflects on the vital role that private landowners and duck clubs play in conserving and managing high-quality wetlands and how warmer winters, less snow, and greater hunting pressure are affecting the timing of migration and hunting opportunities.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Dr. Jerad Henson and co-host Dr. Mike Brasher welcome special guest Pete Stoddart, Director of Corporate Responsibility at Cargill, along with Adam DeHaan, DU's Senior Director of Development for Minnesota and Iowa. The discussion centers around Playa wetlands and the innovative funding opportunities and unique partnerships that are overcoming conservation challenges in Kansas and Nebraska. Pete and Adam discuss the DU and Cargill partnership and how they helped Cargill reach their sustainability goals and create and restore valuable waterfowl habitats.  Tune in for insights into how collaboration paves the way for impactful environmental initiatives.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

Despite recent declines in some goose populations, fresh data suggest that hunters have reasons to be optimistic about the number of young birds flying south this fall. Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by goose experts Josh Dooley (US Fish and Wildlife Service) and Frank Baldwin (Canadian Wildlife Service) to discuss indices for arctic and subarctic goose populations from Alaska to Atlantic Canada. Many areas experienced early spring and good to excellent conditions for nesting, with multiple indicators suggesting better production than what was experienced a few years in the past. New data and hunter reports from the prairies support these conclusions, so good luck to goose hunters as you head afield.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

In this bonus episode, Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Scott Stephens, Josh Dooley (USFWS), and Frank Baldwin (CWS) for an impromptu update on the status of waterfowl migration and wetland conditions from Yellowknife to South Dakota. Cold weather in the far north is ushering birds south, while continued warmth in the prairies has blue-wings holding strong. Wetland conditions in the Canadian prairies are some of the driest ever seen by Dr. Stephens, yet Frank reports good success on bigger waters. With cooler weather on the horizon, many are hoping for a new push of birds as the season gets into full swing.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast

Duck hunters are obsessive weather watchers, as it influences everything from large-scale migration to local movements and habitat use. In this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher welcomes Skot Covert, chief meteorologist at CBS 5News Fort Smith-Fayetteville, AR, and Chance Gotsch, meteorologist at ABC17 Columbia, MO, to discuss early season forecasts for the upcoming fall and winter. Recorded on September 16, 2024, Skot and Chance provide an education on La Nina, El Nino, and how they influence the weather we experience. Although the outlook isn't great for southern hunters, wild cards in play, so tune in for the details.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast