Audubon Dakota works in the Prairie Potholes of North and South Dakota, where some of the best remaining grassland and wetland habitats still support an incredible diversity of waterfowl and avian species. North Dakota provides exceptional breeding and or stop-over habitat for millions of ducks, geese and a wide array of avian species. Many of these species are at risk – Baird’s sparrow, Sprague’s pipit, Bobolinks and others are showing declines that are correlated to the loss and degradation of this unique prairie landscape. Our North Dakota wetlands are also vital for people, as they function as natural “sponges” to mitigate flooding, recharge groundwater, provide water and forage for livestock, and afford economic opportunities across the state for nature-based “tourism”, from birding to hunting.

Audubon’s conservation “wingspan” ranges from the local/regional to the national/international flyway.  Audubon Dakota seeks constructive solutions, and integrates on-the-ground conservation, science-based policy, and outreach strategies to address habitat challenges and opportunities. Natural ecosystem threats range from an accelerating loss of grassland and wetland habitat to the challenge of determining and developing our sustainable energy future. The following summarizes some of our ongoing and evolving work to make a difference for birds, people and the habitat we share.