At Ducks Unlimited, we see a need to implement conservation and management practices that will ensure the protection and sustainability of wetlands to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.
We are proud to provide individuals with an industry certification opportunity designed to better prepare them for a meaningful career in natural resources management.
Wildlife conservation and management has a rich and long history in the United States, and science-based conservation and management remain paramount today in the face of increasing pressures on the land and waters that supports our country’s rich fish and wildlife resources.
Job growth in wildlife ecology and management is projected at 8% from 2016-2026 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Careers may include wildlife habitat manager, wildlife population manager, wildlife research ecologist, wildlife law enforcement officer and others, particularly now that society has begun to place a greater value on natural resources and the environment.
The profession has a particular need for waterfowl ecologists and managers. Professionals may engage in science to inform habitat and population management, establish hunting and fishing regulations, or manage habitat and populations of fish and wildlife.
Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification
Certification Overview
The Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification was developed to help individuals gain experience in the field that leads to a meaningful career in natural resources management.
The certification verifies individuals’ knowledge and skills in the areas of ecological principles and wildlife management, as well as habitat, forest, grasslands, wetlands and waterfowl conservation and management. Those who earn the certification are more qualified and prepared to enter highly-specialized roles within the industry. Additionally, the certification allows employers to connect with more skilled candidates.
Industry Standards
The certification exam consists of 100 questions and assesses knowledge and skills from the following weighted industry standards:
Ecological Principles - 20% | Species Identification - 10% | ||
Wildlife Conservation & Management - 30% | Habitat Conservation & Management - 40% |
Write a Support Letter
To write a letter of support showing why you think the Ducks Unlimited industry certification is valuable, follow these easy steps.
Download the Letter of Support Template & Checklist. |
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Fill out prompts based on your business or organization. (See Example Support Letters at the bottom of this page). |
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Copy and paste the information from the template onto your business or organization's letterhead. |
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Insert your signature. How to insert pictures of signatures into letters:
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Your support letter may be added to the catalog of support letters on iCEV's website unless you suggest otherwise.
Example Certification Support Letters
About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 15 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.
"It’s important that students understand not only the conservation and ecology of wildlife and wildlife habitat, but also their personal roles as future stewards."
Mark Horobetz
Manager of National R3 Programs
Ducks Unlimited