Delta Waterfowl and the Hunting Retrieving Club (HRC) have formed a partnership to promote waterfowl hunting, waterfowl conservation and the use of retrievers in the field.
“We both have a strong interest in promoting conservation and waterfowl hunting across the U.S. and Canada, and with this partnership we can further drive home the message to hunters that a well-trained retriever is one the best conservation tools they can have in the field,” said Delta Senior Vice President John Devney. “I see this new partnership as a tremendous fit for both organizations.”
Gabe Tarr, HRC National Sponsors Chairman, says working with Delta is a natural fit for his organization.
“I couldn’t be more excited about partnering with another grassroots hunting organization,” says Tarr, an avid waterfowl hunter himself and longtime Delta supporter. “Delta’s commitment to waterfowl research, waterfowl conservation and waterfowl hunting in North America is unmatched, and we’re proud to working with the organization. We’re going to make a great team.”
Beginning in the late 1980s, HRC arrived on the scene to fill a vital niche: providing a platform for amateur retriever trainers to “hunt test” their working dogs, an alternative to the popular yet highly regimented field trails.
“The idea behind HRC hunt tests is evaluating, or testing, retriever breeds in real hunting situations,” Tarr says, adding that the HRC has clubs across the nation. “The hunt tests simulate as much as possible waterfowl and upland hunting. Our handlers wear camo, incorporate shotguns and overall handle their dogs like they were in the field, hunting. The hunt tests are good training for dogs and handlers alike.”
Devney says he wants the new partnership to encourage more retriever use in the field. “For the dog handler, it’s enormously satisfying to see your working dog execute in the field,” he says. “It’s also the obligation of hunters to efficiently and effectively recover game, and a well-trained retrieving dog can do just that.”