Delta Waterfowl Science Forum Brings Together the Brightest Minds in Waterfowl Research

More than 80 attendees spent two days in Manitoba, Canada, tackling the questions shaping the future of waterfowl in North America

In early August, Delta Waterfowl hosted the 2026 Delta Waterfowl Science Forum in Manitoba, Canada, drawing one of the largest crowds in decades. The gathering brought together fifteen leading researchers and scientists, plus Delta staff, students, and Delta board members, who discussed topics shaping waterfowl management in North America. 

“This year’s science forum was a huge success,” said Frank Rohwer, president and chief scientist for Delta Waterfowl. “The large expansion of talks compared to previous years meant we had dozens of great presentations. It's hard to say whether the old guys like me in our 70s were more impressed, or the graduate students, who saw so many excellent presentations focused on population biology, genetics, and new drone technology.”

Founded by Al Hochbaum — Delta’s first scientific director and a pioneer of waterfowl research in North America — the inaugural event took place sometime between 1938, when the Delta Waterfowl Research Station was established, and the beginning of World War II. Hochbaum intended to bring students and leading scientists together to discuss their results, a theme that still drives the event today. 

“I remember when I first attended in 1976, I thought it was the coolest thing,” Rohwer said. “It’s an invaluable exchange of scientific information, techniques, and learning that expands the way we think about waterfowl management.”

Over two full days, presentations also covered topics including harvest and population surveys, research on broods, nest predation, and innovative technology, as well as breeding distribution, moist soil management, and two-tiered duck hunting regulations. Attendees asked questions and shared different perspectives on the challenges facing waterfowl populations today.  

Delta graduate students also shared insights from their current projects. Delta hosts students in a variety of research positions and provides them with opportunities to present their findings to leading scientists from across the country. Jay VonBank, Delta’s scientific director, said this is a tremendous investment in their professional development and the future of waterfowl conservation.

“These opportunities allow Delta to showcase the exceptional work of our students while connecting them with experts who can provide valuable scientific feedback or new perspectives,” VonBank said. “At the same time, students build professional relationships and expand their network of future colleagues. We see this as a tremendous opportunity to support the next generation of waterfowl ecologists and managers, helping keep talented students in the field and ensuring a strong future for waterfowl conservation and management.”

To learn more about Delta’s current Research initiatives, visit our 2026 Research and Education Status Update.