The 2012 NAWMP Action Plan was published as a companion to the North American Waterfowl Management Plan Revision. It provides strategic guidance and initial steps for implementing the Plan's expanded vision across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It emphasizes a holistic approach to waterfowl conservation through three interconnected goals:

• sustaining abundant waterfowl populations for hunting and other uses;
• securing sufficient wetlands and habitats for ecological and societal benefits; and
• growing the number of hunters, viewers, and supporters who actively back conservation efforts.

The document outlines seven key recommendations, including...

1. revising NAWMP objectives for populations, habitats, and people;
2. establishing a Human Dimensions Working Group to inform user-related strategies;
3. building broader public support by reconnecting people with nature and highlighting environmental benefits;
4. focusing resources on priority landscapes;
5. adapting harvest management;
6. increasing adaptive capacity through structured learning; and
7. integrating all facets of waterfowl management to evaluate tradeoffs and enhance effectiveness.

It introduces the Interim Integration Committee to lead these efforts, fostering collaboration among Flyway Councils, Joint Ventures, agencies, NGOs, and science teams, with a conceptual framework that evolves based on community input and anticipates a full Plan update before 2017. This Action Plan challenges the waterfowl community to innovate and unite in conserving North America's waterfowl and wetlands for future generations.