John Clements brings a strong conservation background to Delta Waterfowl. He recently retired from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, where he worked as chief conservation officer for the province. He also served as a conservation officer for 17 years in P.E.I., including six years as chief.
“I want people to recognize the value of hunting to conservation,” he said. “I really believe in the future of hunting, and I see an opportunity to get involved with a new generation of duck hunters.”
As a regional director of Delta Waterfowl, Clements works with chapters in Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland/Labrador to conduct successful fundraising events to support Delta’s mission to produce ducks and ensure the future of duck hunting throughout North America.
“I most enjoy meeting new duck hunters, seeing kids smile when we take them hunting for the first time and watching people get excited about Delta’s programs,” he said. “I want to leave a path for youth hunters to follow. If we provide kids with positive experiences, when they’re adults they’ll contribute back to ducks and duck hunters.”
A native of P.E.I., Clements began hunting black ducks, geese and teal with his father when he was 14 years old. In 2000, he started a youth workshop in P.E.I., during which Delta Waterfowl took root on the island.
“About 100 kids a year take part in the event, and it’s still going,” he said.
Clements lives in Ancaster, Ontario, with his partner, Tracey, and a yellow Lab. He has five children, including two step-sons.
“I have a lot of passion for waterfowling,” he said. “I feel like I’m back home with Delta.”