‘We’re more than just ducks’

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This article was published 26/05/2025 (297 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Ducks Unlimited Canada volunteer Jim Anton likes to tell people, “We’re more than just ducks.”

The non-profit environmental organization was founded in the 1930s by hunters trying to figure out how they could reverse the downward trend of North America’s waterfowl numbers, but today, its mission is to help all kinds of creatures.

“We conserve, restore and manage wetlands and grasslands to benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people,” says Anton, 62.

A financial planner with a background in soil and water chemistry, Anton’s involvement with the organization lets him combine his professional experience with his passion for conservation. The Charleswood resident is a lifelong outdoorsman who enjoys hiking, hunting and fishing.

He got involved with the organization more than 35 years ago after attending a few of its fundraisers. An organizer of one of the events encouraged Anton to join Ducks Unlimited. Anton replied that he had just started a new job and was busy.

Sensing Anton was someone who could get things done, the organizer responded, “‘It’s the busy people we want.’”

Anton has served on numerous committees since joining Ducks Unlimited’s Charleswood committee all those years ago.

He’s set up fundraising events, organized conferences and been involved with hiring staff members. He currently serves as co-chair of the Manitoba Provincial Council, spearheading its first strategic plan and helping boost volunteer recruitment, retention and engagement.

“I (appreciate) the passion of the volunteers and staff, and I enjoy knowing our mission and our work is bettering the environment and bringing awareness to the importance of wetland conservation,” Anton says.

Ducks Unlimited has completed more than 11,826 projects throughout North America since 1938 and conserved, restored and “positively influenced” more than 201.8 million acres of habitat, its website states.

The organization uses a variety of approaches, including scientific research, education, political advocacy, working with Indigenous peoples and partnering with landowners.

DUC has about 460 volunteers in Manitoba and more than 3,000 across Canada. Last month, the organization named Anton one of its 11 volunteers of the year for 2025. He was the only Manitoba honouree.

“I was surprised because usually I do the nominating at provincial council, and we’ve been so busy this year it slipped my mind as to us nominating a volunteer,” he says. “So, I was shocked and honoured to be recognized in a province with 400-plus strong volunteers.”

Kris Kamenz, who nominated Anton for the honour, says he deserved to be recognized for his strong dedication to the organization.

“If someone says, ‘Can I get your help?’, he’s probably one of the first people that will say, ‘I’ll do it,’” Kamenz says, adding Anton’s enthusiasm is infectious. “He’s gotten people motivated to also join Ducks Unlimited.”

Anton attributes his interest in volunteering to his parents, who served their community by coaching sports and raising money for charity.

He’s proud that volunteering with Ducks Unlimited is a family affair: his wife Tammy and their three children, Matthew, Jessie and Emma, are all involved with the organization.

“It’s special that they’ve come along to understand the importance of volunteering and wetland conservation,” Anton says.

If you know a special volunteer, email aaron.epp@freepress.mb.ca.