“Each year, we’re amazed by the commitment and creativity of North Carolinians working to protect the wildlife, air, water and land we all depend on,” said T. Edward Nickens, NCWF awards committee chair. “This year’s conservation heroes are land stewardship champions, water advocates and leaders in the preservation of unique ecosystems.”

Williams became an employee of The Duck Hunters Organization in 2010 as its original Atlantic Flyway regional director. He was promoted to a regional manager for the events team in 2019. His professional drive, direct communication style and courageous defenses of waterfowl hunting have made him a critical asset to duck hunters throughout the East. From helping thwart a hunting ban on Lake Norman and other prized waterfowling areas, to recruiting newcomers to the sport and new volunteers to Delta Waterfowl, Williams is deserved of his nickname, “Mr. Atlantic Flyway.”

“I’m a hard guy to render speechless, but learning I was even considered for the Sportsman of the Year Award did just that,” Williams said. “It may have my name on it, but this award belongs to the hundreds of Delta volunteers and local chapters across North Carolina. They’re who make Delta’s work for ducks and duck hunters possible. Their passion is what keeps me motivated.”

Williams lives in Princeton, North Carolina, with his wife, three boys and a pair of black Labs. When he isn’t hunting canvasbacks or at a Delta Waterfowl chapter event, you’ll find him coaching his sons’ baseball teams.

For more information or to start a Delta chapter in your area, contact Chris Williams at (919) 538-7874 or cwilliams@deltawaterfowl.org.

Delta Waterfowl is The Duck Hunters Organization, a leading conservation group working to produce ducks and secure the future of waterfowl hunting in North America. Visit deltawaterfowl.org.