National Wild Turkey Federation Inc.

Overview

The National Wild Turkey Federation Inc. is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of the American hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, the organization has played a crucial role in restoring wild turkey populations across North America.

History

In the early 1970s, Tom Rodgers, an insurance salesman and outdoor enthusiast, envisioned a national organization to address the decline of wild turkey habitats due to urbanization. The NWTF was formally established on March 28, 1973, with a mission to protect wild turkeys and promote hunting as a sustainable conservation practice.

Mission

The organization's primary goals are to conserve wild turkey populations and preserve hunting traditions. It achieves these objectives through scientific research, habitat conservation, and educational programs. The NWTF works closely with state and federal wildlife agencies, as well as other partners, to develop and implement effective conservation strategies.

Conservation Efforts

• Wild Turkey Populations: Since its inception, the NWTF has contributed significantly to the increase in wild turkey populations. From approximately 1.3 million birds in 1973, the numbers have grown to over 7 million.
• Habitat Conservation: The NWTF has been instrumental in conserving or enhancing more than 22 million acres of wildlife habitat. This includes efforts to restore forests, grasslands, and wetlands that benefit not only wild turkeys but also other species.
• Research and Education: The organization supports extensive research on wild turkey biology and management. It also offers educational programs such as JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, and Sportsmanship) and Women in the Outdoors to promote outdoor skills and conservation awareness.

Programs and Initiatives

• Making Tracks: A cooperative program with state and federal wildlife agencies aimed at restoring wild turkeys to suitable habitats across North America.
• Wild Turkey Super Fund: Established in 1985, this program funds conservation, habitat restoration, and education projects.
• Regional Habitat Programs: The NWTF offers region-specific initiatives, such as Operation Oak and Guzzlers for Gobblers, to enhance wildlife habitats across different ecosystems.

Impact and Collaborations

The NWTF collaborates with various state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, to advocate for better funding of forest and grassland restoration efforts. The organization also influences policy through legislative advocacy and works to increase public awareness of the importance of conservation.

Membership and Growth

With a membership exceeding 250,000 across North America, the NWTF remains a powerful voice in wildlife conservation and hunting advocacy. Its continued efforts focus on maintaining strong wild turkey populations while supporting a broader conservation agenda that benefits ecosystems and communities.