Page 18 - Waterfowl

Acknowledgments
This book is the result of teamwork among an incredible number of partners and contributors. Many people provided information and other assistance required to tell the story of waterfowl hunting and wetland conservation in Missouri. We apologize for anyone who is not specifically mentioned.
Bass Pro Shops (BPS) kick-started this project in 2012 with a significant challenge grant to help underwrite production costs. We are indebted to Johnny Morris, founder of BPS, for his generosity. Martin McDonald, conservation director for BPS, served
as a liaison with the Book Committee throughout the production process. Tammy Sapp, director of communications for BPS, provided excellent help in marketing the book. Conservation organizations, duck clubs, and individuals combined financial contributions to match the BPS challenge grant.
The BPS funds, matching contributions, and a grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) covered the entire cost of production; thus, all of the proceeds from sales will be available for conservation projects that benefit Missouri waterfowl and wetlands.
MDC staff provided critical review and guidance during every step of the project. In addition, they opened their research files, granted unlimited access to image archives, and gave blanket permission to use images and data. Director Bob Ziehmer, Deputy Director Tim Ripperger, Outreach and Education Division Chief Mike Huffman, and Art Director Cliff White all provided cooperation and wise counsel.
The Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) is the publisher of this book. Executive Director Chris Vitello and Communications Director Donna Richards provided excellent support from the outset. Mindy Kremer, financial analyst for MDC, handled all financial matters related to this project.
Ducks Unlimited was a strong partner, providing suggestions for initial outlines and recommendations for content, organization, style, and length. DU also sponsored
a reception at the Audubon Center at Riverlands in St. Louis in September 2013, to announce plans for the book. Patricia Hagen, executive director of the center, made
the facility available for this event. DU staff offering support and encouragement include Dale Hall, CEO; Paul Schmidt, chief conservation officer; Tom Fulgham,
chief communications officer; James Powell, director of communications; Dan Thiel, executive secretary; Art Delaurier, executive editor; Dana Barton, director of meetings and conferences; Karen Almand, graphic designer; Troy LaRue, director of fundraising and volunteer relations; Mark Flaspohler, manager of conservation programs; Mike Checkett, director of development; and Steve Spezia, conservation specialist.
Alan Wentz served as manuscript editor, and provided guidance regarding content, organization, photo support, and numerous other production matters. He also had the challenge of editing work from multiple authors. Chris Madson provided valuable assistance reviewing manuscripts for content, style, and readability. His expertise in outdoor writing was invaluable. In addition, Matt Seek and John Stanard provided editorial assistance on parts of the book.
Duck clubs have played significant roles in waterfowl and wetland conservation in Missouri for more than a hundred years. The following duck club owners, members, and managers provided interviews, shared photos, and allowed access to their properties (listed regionally): Northwest: Doug Watkins, Ryan Schultz, Terry Supple, Phil Acuff, and Mark Kneib; North-central: Tim Reger, Jim Shull, Al Price, and Don Walsworth; Northeast: Steve Maritz, Steve Jones, Jay Henges, Warren Hager, Patrick
16 Waterfowl Hunting and Wetland Conservation in Missouri