“Cyrus had all the attributes we were looking for in making this important hire,” said John Devney, senior vice president of policy for Delta Waterfowl. “He is a dedicated waterfowl hunter and experienced policy professional who will marry his passion for ducks and duck hunting with his understanding of how to impact policy. We are confident Cyrus will prove to be an invaluable resource to Delta volunteers, members and duck hunters on the policy issues that impact them in their states and communities while also pressing Delta’s policy priorities.”
Baird is an avid duck hunter and an experienced natural resources policy professional. He has spent his career advocating on behalf of outdoorsmen and women while working to implement policy and advocacy strategies at the local, state, federal and international levels. He holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries biology from Clemson University.
Baird has worked on issues such as repealing Sunday hunting prohibitions in the Atlantic Flyway, opposing public hunting closures, and conservation funding for Safari Club International, Ducks Unlimited, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports.
“Delta has some of the most passionate members and supporters anywhere!” Baird said. “I’m excited to help build off that passion and channel it into advocating for our priorities at the local and state levels for all things ducks and duck hunting. After all, Delta is The Duck Hunters Organization. I love how we incorporate the full circle … from the science and on-the-ground habitat conservation, to the First Hunt initiatives and University Hunting Program … to defending duck hunting across North America.”
Baird grew up hunting deer, rabbits and turkeys in Virginia, but didn’t take his first ducks until he was a teenager. However, he says that pulling the trigger on his first pair of mallards hooked him for life.
“Today,” he said, “spending time in the blind with friends and family is my absolute favorite thing in the world.”
Baird works from Richmond, where he resides with his wife Megan, their daughter Charlotte and golden retriever Caroline.