Delta Waterfowl Welcomes New Regional Director Supporting Illinois Chapters

Matt Ward will aid Delta volunteers with fundraising events, recruitment, and furthering the organization’s mission through chapter development.  

The Duck Hunters Organization has recruited a new regional director for the state of Illinois to boost chapter committees as the organization’s volunteer chapter system continues to grow. Matt Ward will lead Delta’s existing chapters in the state, pioneer new chapters, and support volunteers as they hold successful fundraising events that support Delta’s mission to produce ducks and secure the future of waterfowl hunting in North America.

Ward was born and raised on a small farm in northwest Illinois. For the past 20 years, he found a career in agricultural retail, while also making time to experience incredible hunting opportunities in Arkansas, the Canadian Prairies, the Pacific-Northwest, and more. As his career progressed, he remained vigilant for a job that encompassed his true passion.

“Growing up as a farm kid, I have 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.”

When the weather is warmer and he is 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.

“Matt is an incredibly dedicated individual. He’s a lifelong waterfowler, a staunch conservationist, and is exceedingly committed to serving the Delta members and volunteers in Illinois,” said Brian Moyse, Delta’s previous regional director for Illinois who spearheaded tremendous chapter growth in the state before assuming the role of director of events. “We’re fortunate to have him at Delta Waterfowl, and we’re looking forward to all that Matt and the passionate Delta volunteers throughout Illinois will accomplish together!”

Ward resides in Lyndon, Illinois, with his wife, two daughters, and black Lab, Ruby. He can be reached at mward@deltawaterfowl.org. —Christy Sweigart