Duck populations surveyed in the mid-continent prairie and parkland regions increased 14% from last year and were 24% above the long-term average. However, most of the mallard, wood duck, black duck, and green-winged teal harvested in Michigan (about 75% of the total harvest) come from Michigan and eastern Canada. These duck populations have been relatively stable over the last several years except Michigan mallards, which have been declining. Michigan's Canada goose harvest is derived from primarily three flocks, including the Mississippi Valley Population (MVP), the Southern James Bay Population (SJBP), and local giant Canada geese. The MBP and local giant populations are up from last year's estimates, and the SJBP population is holding stable from last year. Recommendations for this year's waterfowl seasons were developed by the DNR with input from the Citizens' Waterfowl Advisory Committee and many other individuals interested in Michigan waterfowl. All rules and regulations in this guide are consistent with federal regulations and received approval by the Natural Resources Commission and the DNR Director.