Arthur Leonard

Living on the salt marshes of Chincoteague Island, Virginia, Leonard grew up with nature literally at his back door. As a result of this close proximity, he felt a natural interest in waterfowl, their migration patterns, and their habits. After college, he began to work as a waterman and a licensed charter boat captain, leading eco-tours of the surrounding waters. He also enjoys guiding hunting parties in the winter months. When not on the water, Leonard spends much of his time at his motel, The Refuge Inn, located on the island. The off-season allows him to continue his true passion for carving and collecting waterfowl decoys. A leader and volunteer for many organizations on the East Coast, he has coordinated the decoy contest for the Chincoteague Easter Decoy Festival for the last 15 years. Also, he has judged at the Worlds for several years and is a member of the World Competition Committee.