Washington, D.C. —  Senator John Thune today expressed his gratitude on receiving the Ducks Unlimited Federal Elected Official Wetlands Conservation Achievement Award. The award recognizes Senator Thune’s leadership on wildlife habitat preservation efforts and other issues relating to waterfowl conservation. Senator Thune is the Vice Chairman of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus.

“Responsible conservation policy that balances the needs of landowners and wildlife is critical to economic success in South Dakota, the Midwest, and the entire country,” said Thune. “Conservation groups like Ducks Unlimited are important advocates for well-formulated policy. I look forward to continuing to work with them in the years ahead.”

As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senator Thune was actively involved in crafting and expanding the conservation programs in the 2008 Farm Bill. The Farm Bill reauthorized and expanded the Conservation Reserve Program, which has worked with agricultural producers in South Dakota to preserve gamebird habitats in South Dakota. The Farm Bill also expanded the Wetlands Reserve Program and the Grasslands Reserve Program, which also protect duck and pheasant habitats in South Dakota.

Senator Thune will also receive the Teaming With Wildlife Award from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Senator Thune is being recognized for his support of the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Program and his support for the Teaming With Wildlife Act.