Episode
California’s Central Valley: Water, Wetlands & the Future of Ducks (Ep 780)
- Podcast
- Ducks Unlimited Podcast
- Published
- Jun 9, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3076
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://share.transistor.fm/s/ad1c6451
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Summary
JOIN US AT THE 2026 DUCKS UNLIMITED EXPO! July 31 - August 2 at the RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER in Memphis, TN California’s Central Valley is one of the most important — and most intensively managed — waterfowl landscapes in North America. In this episode, host Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Matt Kaminski , Ducks Unlimited Regional Biologist, and Dr. Dan Smith , DU Waterfowl Scientist, for a deep dive into habitat conditions, conservation challenges, and the future of wetlands in the Pacific Flyway. From highly engineered water systems to changing land use and declining snowpack, the conversation highlights how water management decisions shape waterfowl populations across the entire annual cycle — from breeding to migration and wintering. In this episode, listeners will hear about: Current breeding habitat conditions in the Central Valley The role of snowpack and water supply in wetland availability Why California remains critical for wintering AND breeding ducks Declines in mallard production and possible causes Changes in agriculture, especially rice, and impacts on ducks The importance of watergrass as a key food resource Highly engineered water systems and wetland infrastructure Seasonal vs. semi‑permanent wetlands explained The concept of “reverse cycle wetlands” and brood habitat Why summer water is critical — but difficult and expensive to maintain DU and partner programs incentivizing habitat for breeding waterfowl This episode provides an inside look at one of the most complex conservation landscapes in North America — and how Ducks Unlimited is working with partners to keep it productive for waterfowl. Listen now : www.ducks.org/DUPodcast Send feedback : [email protected] SPONSORS : Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited Whether…