Clark to Retire from Philmont Scout Ranch

By Wilson Neely

John Clark

● John Clark, general manager of Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, recently announced he was retiring to spend more time at his home in Ute Park.

● Clark has been involved in Boy Scouts of America for 37 years, including 13 at Philmont Scout Ranch. His last day will be May 31.

● During Clark’s tenure, which also has included serving as the national director of High Adventure, Boy Scout operations at Philmont Ranch and in Minnesota, Canada, and Florida have improved and expanded.

● At Philmont Scout Ranch, Clark has overseen the construction of new health facilities, an activities center, and the remodeling of the camps.

● More than $2 million was raised for several improvement projects, including the renovation of the Seton Museum.

● His job included overseeing 100 full-time employees and 1,600 seasonal employees, as well as an operating and capital budget of $25 million.

Accomplishments

Retirement● Clark first visited Philmont Scout

Ranch in 1969 when, he has said, he fell in love with it.

● In nearby Ute Park, Clark plans on spending time in his woodworking shop, as well as fishing, hiking, and competing in shooting competitions.