The DPR is attractive to breeding mallards because of the tremendous abundance and diversity of wetland habitats that still exist. Unfortunately, mallards choosing to settle in this landscape stand little chance of successfully reproducing because most of the grassland habitats have been converted to agriculture and predator communities have been significantly altered. Consequently, nest success for many ducks in this region fall far below what is necessary to maintain the population.
Nesting structures can help compensate for a lack of natural nesting cover.
Concrete culverts placed within semi-permanent wetlands have proven to be very effective for mallards. Culverts have a greater life expectancy than other structures, are easy and inexpensive to install, are less prone to tipping, contain permanent nesting cover, and need very little maintenance. Waterfowl projects in North Dakota target these hot spots.