Formed in 2004, the Confluence Conservation Partnership focuses on five key areas: long-term land protection, private land enhancement for wildlife, public land acquisition, policy, and education. It leverages diverse partnerships to protect the Confluence Region, which is largely privately owned, and has positively impacted over 32,000 acres since 2010.

Key programs include USDA Farm Bill initiatives, DU easement programs, MDC cost share assistance, USFWS programs, and NAWCA. The partnership also combats floodplain commercial development through policy work and engages in outreach and education.

Core partners originally included voluntary landowners, Ducks Unlimited, Missouri Department of Conservation, US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA NRCS, Great Rivers Habitat Alliance, Conservation Federation of Missouri, Audubon, Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, and The Nature Conservancy. The partnership aims to provide crucial habitat for migrating waterbirds and preserve hunting and agricultural heritage.

In January 2025, partnership leaders assessed progress at the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference, recommitted to continuing this group’s efforts and began planning future meetings. As we move forward, the partners will look to continue to build relationships with new conservation and agriculture partners.

Confluence Partnership Accomplishment Highlights

·         Recognized as a model for conservation, receiving national recognition in 2012.

·         Positively impacted 32,000 acres and provided technical assistance on another 31,000 acres.

·         Opened the Audubon Center at Riverlands in 2011.

·         Secured significant conservation easements and NAWCA grants.

·         Delivered numerous projects through the Missouri Agriculture Wetlands Initiative.

·         Hosted successful DU/GRHA Gala events, raising $1.7 million for conservation.

·         Played a key role in passing Missouri House Bill 1434 and Senate Bill 225.

·         Stopped several environmentally harmful projects, such as the Elm Point Levee and Smartt Field expansion.

·         Opposed eminent domain actions to protect vital habitats.

The Confluence Conservation Partnership continues to enhance, restore, and protect regional wetlands and associated habitats through collaboration and innovative funding strategies.

Click Here for Confluence Partnership Accomplishments