A legacy of conservation is set in stone in Delta, B.C.

Ducks Unlimited Canada unveils a cairn at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary on Westham Island to honour a lifetime of wetland conservation with Geroge C. Reifel.

DELTA, BC, Sept. 23, 2024 /CNW/ - Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) proudly unveiled a commemorative cairn honouring George Reifel, a long-time advocate of waterfowl and wetland conservation and a passionate supporter of DUC. The ceremony took place at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary, a conservation area named for Reifel's grandfather, George C. Reifel, that represents the Reifel family's enduring commitment to wildlife and habitat preservation.

George Reifel, Past-President of DUC (1996 to 1998) honoured during cairn unveiling ceremony at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary. Credit: Miguel Eichelberger (CNW Group/Ducks Unlimited Canada)

Commemorative cairn honouring George Reifel, a long-time advocate of waterfowl and wetland conservation and a passionate supporter of DUC. Credit: Miguel Eichelberger (CNW Group/Ducks Unlimited Canada)

Ducks Unlimited Canada, CEO, Michael Nadler congratulates George Reifel. Credit: Miguel Eichelberger (CNW Group/Ducks Unlimited Canada)

The surprise event brought together First Nations community members, conservation leaders, DUC staff, representatives from local First Nations, government representatives, and members of the local community to celebrate Reifel's decades of contributions to DUC and to environmental conservation. Serving as President of DUC from 1996 to 1998 and as Chairman of DUC's Board in 1999 and 2000, George Reifel was instrumental in shaping key conservation initiatives across the country, and his work in the Fraser River Delta has safeguarded crucial habitats for generations of waterfowl and people.

"George Reifel's dedication to conservation has left an enduring mark on our landscapes and our organization," said Michael Nadler, CEO of Ducks Unlimited Canada. "The sanctuary and wetlands he and his family helped protect will continue to flourish as living tributes to their efforts. His dedication and selfless contributions are worthy of celebration, and recognition. Our organization, and these wetlands can only thrive when passionate people step up and do what George has done."

The cairn, now a permanent fixture at the sanctuary, recognizes Reifel's pivotal role in leading conservation efforts ranging from land acquisition and habitat restoration to wetland protection across the country. His stewardship of the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary represents a unique partnership between DUC, federal and provincial governments, the B.C. Waterfowl Society, and the Reifel family.

"George's contributions have gone beyond just our local efforts," said Sarah Nathan, DUC's manager of provincial operations in British Columbia. "He has influenced conservation strategies on a national scale, ensuring that habitats critical to waterfowl and wildlife are preserved for future generations."

About Ducks Unlimited Canada: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leader in wetland conservation. A registered charity, DUC uses sound science and partners with government, industry, non-profit organizations, Indigenous Peoples and landowners to conserve wetlands that are critical to waterfowl, wildlife and the environment. To learn more about DUC's innovative environmental solutions and services, visit www.ducks.ca

SOURCE Ducks Unlimited Canada

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