Matt Ward is the regional director for Delta Waterfowl’s Illinois chapters, where he leads efforts to strengthen the organization’s volunteer network, support fundraising initiatives, and advance Delta’s mission. With a lifelong passion for waterfowl hunting and a deep commitment to preserving the future of waterfowl populations, Matt brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role.
“Growing up as a farm kid, I’ve been an avid outdoorsman my whole life, hunting everything in season, fishing, and trapping,” Ward said. “Waterfowling has always been my passion and I’ve always been a huge supporter and volunteer for conservation groups like Delta. When the career opportunity to give back to the ducks became available, I jumped at the chance.”
Matt has traveled widely to pursue waterfowl—hunting ducks and geese in places like Arkansas, the Canadian Prairies, and the Pacific Northwest, while cultivating a more than 20-year career in agricultural retail before joining the Delta team.
When the weather is warmer and he’s not working, you’ll find Ward and his family touring around the Midwest to cheer at his daughter’s travel softball games. During the “off-season,” they’re most likely to be on the river boating or out chasing ducks, geese, coyotes, deer, and turkey.