An increasing number of wildlife management students have little to no exposure to hunting, nor first-hand experience of the role hunters play in the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. Delta Waterfowl launched its University Hunting Program in 2017 to help future waterfowl management leaders gain hunting experience and understanding to bridge the gap between wildlife managers and hunters. Students at participating universities receive hunting instruction as part of their regular wildlife coursework, including a hunter safety course, a range day, a mentored waterfowl hunt and a post-hunt waterfowl dinner.
Delta's University Hunting Program is offered at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and more than 70 (and counting!) higher-education institutions.