FOWL Language: Management for Waterfowl Success
Successful waterfowl management requires much more than simply flooding a wetland and hoping birds arrive. Habitat quality, water management, vegetation communities, predator control, and landscape planning all work together to influence waterfowl use and success.
Join Texas A&M AgriLife Extension specialists and natural resource professionals for a full-day educational program designed to help landowners, managers, hunters, and conservation professionals better understand the principles of waterfowl habitat management.
The morning will begin with classroom presentations covering aquatic vegetation management, predator and nuisance animal control, and site-specific management considerations before transitioning to a hands-on field tour of a managed property.
Participants will gain practical experience identifying beneficial and nuisance wetland plants, evaluating brush management strategies, observing predator management demonstrations, and discussing water level manipulation and successional habitat management techniques used to improve waterfowl habitat.
Afternoon sessions will focus on managing coastal landscapes for waterfowl and selecting and promoting native wetland vegetation that provides valuable forage and cover for migratory and resident waterfowl.
Topics Include
- Aquatic vegetation management for waterfowl habitats
- Predator and nuisance animal management
- Brush identification and management
- Identification of beneficial and nuisance wetland plants
- Water fluctuations and successional habitat management
- Managing coastal landscapes for waterfowl
- Native wetland vegetation for waterfowl habitat
- Water management strategies for permanently flooded impoundments
Whether you manage a coastal marsh, moist-soil unit, duck pond, wetland impoundment, ranch, or recreational property, this program will provide practical tools and science-based recommendations to help you create and maintain quality waterfowl habitat.
What to Bring
A significant portion of this program will take place outdoors in coastal wetland environments. Participants should dress appropriately for field conditions and be prepared for heat, sun exposure, insects, and potentially wet or muddy terrain.
We recommend bringing:
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Extra drinking water
- Comfortable outdoor clothing
- Closed-toe shoes or boots that can get wet and muddy
- A hat and sunglasses
Registration includes educational materials, field activities, and a light lunch.
Required Documentation
All attendees will be required to complete the waiver below.
You have the option to complete the waiver and upload it with your registration or complete it at check-in.
