Alaska Waterfowl Association

Alaska Waterfowl Association AWA is local non-profit organization focused and dedicated to Waterfowlers and Wetland conservationist committed to the future of the waterfowl in Alaska
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Develop a brotherhood of Duckhunters throughout the state of Alaska that share a common passion with waterfowling, conservation and the restoration of our natural resources. Willing to provide time, effort, finances, mentorship, leadership, commitment and support to promoting the waterfowling tradition. Ensuring we continue to educate our youth throughout Alaska in preserving the waterfowling heritage for future generations.

05/25/2026

From everyone at Alaska Waterfowl Association we would like to wish everyone a Happy Memorial Day

Alaska Waterfowl Association would like to introduce our new president - Darryl MelanconDarryl Melancon of Chugiak is a ...
05/23/2026

Alaska Waterfowl Association would like to introduce our new president - Darryl Melancon

Darryl Melancon of Chugiak is a lifelong outdoorsman, conservation advocate, retired United States Air Force veteran, charter boat captain, waterfowl guide, and automotive technician who believes hard work, integrity, and dedication to the outdoors are a way of life.

Born and raised in South Louisiana, Darryl developed a passion for duck hunting at the age of 12. Growing up surrounded by the rich waterfowl traditions of Louisiana gave him a deep respect for wildlife conservation, ethical hunting, and the strong community built around the outdoors. At 23 years old, Darryl left Louisiana to begin his career in the United States Air Force, serving honorably for 20 years, 3 months, and 13 days. During his military career, he traveled around the world twice, gaining leadership experience, discipline, and a strong commitment to service.

In 2012, Darryl arrived in Alaska and quickly fell in love with the state’s rugged beauty, wildlife, and unmatched outdoor opportunities. While proud of his Louisiana roots, Alaska became the place where his connection to the outdoors truly grew. From Alaska’s wetlands and waterways to its hunting traditions and public lands, Darryl found both adventure and purpose in the Last Frontier.

Today, Darryl stays active through his work as a charter boat captain, waterfowl guide, and automotive technician. Whether guiding hunters in the field, working on vehicles , or helping others enjoy Alaska’s outdoors, he believes in staying hands-on and leading by example.

As a leader within the Alaska Waterfowl Association, Darryl is committed to bringing a new way forward built on transparency, accountability, and community involvement. He believes in honest leadership with no handshake deals, open communication, and decisions made in the best interest of the organization and its members.

Most importantly, Darryl is passionate about getting young people involved in waterfowl hunting and conservation. He strongly believes that youth are the future of waterfowl hunting and that preserving Alaska’s outdoor traditions depends on mentoring and educating the next generation of hunters, outdoorsmen, and conservationists.

As the president of the Alaska Waterfowl Association, Darryl Melancon is dedicated to protecting Alaska’s waterfowl heritage, strengthening the hunting community, and ensuring future generations can experience the same passion for the outdoors that has guided his life from the marshes of Louisiana to the wild landscapes of Alaska.

Alaska Waterfowl Association would like to introduce a new member of our Board of Directors, Tracy Melancon . Tracy Mela...
05/22/2026

Alaska Waterfowl Association would like to introduce a new member of our Board of Directors, Tracy Melancon .

Tracy Melancon traded the desert heat of Arizona for the wild beauty of Alaska 22 years ago — and never looked back. What started as a move quickly became a passion for the outdoors and the rugged lifestyle Alaska is known for. Over the years, Tracy fell deeply in love with big game hunting, fishing, and the waterfowl world, building a life around the land, the water, and the traditions that come with them.

Today, Tracy stands out as one of only two female waterfowl guides in Alaska, proudly breaking barriers in a field few women enter. Her passion goes far beyond the hunt itself — she loves teaching others how to hunt, fish, shoot ducks, and gain confidence in the outdoors. Whether she’s guiding seasoned hunters or helping beginners experience their first successful hunt, Tracy brings energy, knowledge, patience, and heart to every adventure.

For Tracy, Alaska isn’t just where she lives — it’s who she is. She believes the outdoors has the power to challenge people, connect them, and help them live life to the fullest. Every season on the water or in the field is another chance to share that passion and help others create memories they’ll never forget.

SEAK Outfitters is a proud supporter of Alaska Waterfowl Association . If you are looking for crane hunts, check out the...
05/10/2026

SEAK Outfitters is a proud supporter of Alaska Waterfowl Association . If you are looking for crane hunts, check out their page!!!

05/08/2026

Greetings Volunteers,

We’re making one final push next week to help protect the scenic beauty and wildlife habitat of the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge - and we need your help!

So far this year, dedicated volunteers have removed more than 1,200 pounds of plastic, Styrofoam, food wrappers, and other roadside litter from the refuge. Every bag collected makes a visible difference for wildlife, visitors, and our community.

Join us for a roadside cleanup along the southbound lane of the Glenn Highway:

Tuesday, May 12 | 1:00–3:00 PM
Thursday, May 14 | 1:00–3:00 PM

The starting point is the southbound lane of the Glenn Highway in the Palmer Hay Flats near milepost 33.5, north of the Matanuska River. Look for the “Litter Crew” sign on the highway.

Please be very careful and observant when operating along the highway.

Work gloves and waterproof footwear are recommended. That said, if you don’t work off the berm you can participate comfortably without waterproof footwear.

ADF&G will supply orange vests, trash pickers and bags.

If the wind is blowing more than 20 miles an hour at 10 am on a pickup day I will send a cancellation email.

A volunteer waiver is required and will be available on site. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Come out, make an impact, and help us finish the season strong!

If you have questions, please call my cell phone (below).

Thanks!

Heather Langendorf
Refuge Manager, Upper Cook Inlet Region
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Division of Wildlife Conservation
907-861-2112
907-631-8512 cell

05/07/2026

Dear Alaska Waterfowl Association Community,

On behalf of the Alaska Waterfowl Association, I want to extend sincere gratitude to Chris Watchus for stepping up and serving as President over the last two years; prior to stepping up to this role as President he served on our board and was also a volunteer for many years. Chris took on the role during a time when the organization needed leadership, stability, and commitment, and he answered that call with dedication to both the mission of AWA and the outdoor community we serve.

Because of his efforts and the support of our members, volunteers, and sponsors, AWA is entering a new chapter filled with opportunity and growth.

As we move forward, we are excited to announce that the Alaska Waterfowl Association will be welcoming a new President to lead the organization into its next season. We are rebuilding, refocusing, and working hard to strengthen the future of AWA for hunters, conservationists, families, and the next generation of outdoorsmen and women across Alaska.

With this new chapter also comes opportunity for involvement. We currently have three open Board Member positions and are actively looking for individuals who are passionate about conservation, community, waterfowl education, and preserving Alaska’s outdoor heritage. Fresh ideas, energy, and participation are what will continue to grow this organization into something even stronger.

The future of AWA is bright, and we are excited for what lies ahead. Thank you to everyone who has continued to support this organization through every season of change. We look forward to rebuilding together, growing membership, expanding opportunities, and continuing the traditions that make Alaska’s waterfowl community so special.

Please join us in thanking Chris Watchus for his leadership and commitment these past two years, and stay tuned for exciting updates as we move forward together.

Greetings, This is an invitation to help preserve the scenic beauty of our local wildlife refuge by collecting roadside ...
05/06/2026

Greetings,

This is an invitation to help preserve the scenic beauty of our local wildlife refuge by collecting roadside garbage. Weekly cleanups will continue through mid-May in Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge. A volunteer waiver is required and will be available on site. Please remember volunteers under the age of 18 will need a parent or guardian present.

Thursday, May 7th, we will be removing trash fromthe southbound lane of the Glenn Highway from 1 to 3 pm.

The starting point is the southbound lane of theGlenn Highway in the Palmer Hay Flats near milepost 33, (between the Matanuska River and Rabbit Slough). Look for the “Litter Crew” sign on the highway.

Please be very careful and observant when operating along the highway.

Work gloves and waterproof footwear are recommended. That said, if you don’t work off the berm you can participate comfortably without waterproof footwear.

ADF&G will supply orange vests, trash pickers and bags.

If the wind is blowing more than 20 miles an hour at 10 am on a pickup day I will send a cancellation email.

If you have questions, please call my cell phone (below).

If you would like to be removed from this email list, please let me know.

I hope to see you out there!

Heather Langendorf
Refuge Manager, Upper Cook Inlet Region
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Division of Wildlife Conservation
907-861-2112

Greetings Everyone, Help keep our stretch of highway beautiful and wildlife safe. Weekly cleanups are starting and will...
04/19/2026

Greetings Everyone,

Help keep our stretch of highway beautiful and wildlife safe. Weekly cleanups are starting and will continue through mid-May in Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge. Volunteers can pitch in to preserve the scenic beauty of the refuge by collecting roadside garbage. A volunteer waiver is required and will be available on site. Please remember volunteers under the age of 18 will need a parent or guardian present.

Tuesday, April 21st, and Thursday April 23rd we will be removing trash from the southbound lane of the Glenn Highway from 1 to 3 pm.

The starting point is the southbound lane of the Glenn Highway in the Palmer Hay Flats approximately 1/2 mile south of Rabbit Slough (mile 33.5). Look for the “Litter Crew” sign on the highway.

Please be very careful and observant when operating along the highway.

Work gloves and waterproof footwear are recommended. That said, if you don’t work off the berm you can participate comfortably without waterproof footwear.

ADF&G will supply orange vests, trash pickers and bags.

If the wind is blowing more than 20 miles an hour at 10 am on a pickup day I will send a cancellation email.

If you have questions, please call my cell phone (below).

If you would like to be removed from this email list, please let me know.

I hope to see you out there!

Heather Langendorf
Refuge Manager, Upper Cook Inlet Region
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Division of Wildlife Conservation
907-861-2112
907-631-8512

Reflections Lake Discovery DayJune 13, 12-4 p.m.Reflections Lake, PalmerCelebrate the Palmer Hayflats Refuge at this fre...
04/17/2026

Reflections Lake Discovery Day
June 13, 12-4 p.m.
Reflections Lake, Palmer
Celebrate the Palmer Hayflats Refuge at this free, family-friendly event. Engage with birding stations along the boardwalk, assist ADF&G staff with a fish release, learn how to deploy bear spray, participate in hands-on nature activities, go geocaching, and more!

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Wasilla, AK
99654

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 11pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm

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