National Wild Turkey Federation Inc.

Overview

The National Wild Turkey Federation Inc. is a prominent U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of wild turkeys and the preservation of hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, it has grown to include more than 250,000 members across North America.

Mission

The organization's mission focuses on conserving wild turkeys and promoting hunting as a sustainable practice. It achieves this through habitat conservation, research, and educational programs, with a strong emphasis on community engagement.

History

In the early 1970s, the wild turkey population in North America was significantly declining, with only about 1.3 million birds remaining. The NWTF was established to address this issue. Over the years, the organization has successfully contributed to increasing the wild turkey population to over 7 million through concerted conservation efforts.

Conservation Achievements

The NWTF has made significant strides in wildlife conservation by:

• Habitat Improvement: The organization has played a crucial role in improving or conserving more than 22 million acres of wildlife habitat across North America.
• Research Funding: It has allocated over $9 million to wild turkey research projects, supporting scientific management practices that underpin the recovery of wild turkey populations.
• Community Programs: The NWTF operates programs like JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, and Sportsmanship), Women in the Outdoors, and Wheelin' Sportsmen, which aim to educate and engage diverse groups in outdoor activities and conservation.

Fundraising and Partnerships

A key fundraiser for the NWTF is the Hunting Heritage Super Fund Banquet, which raises money for conservation projects. The organization also partners with federal, state, and corporate entities to leverage its funding, often achieving a leverage ratio of 4:1 or higher. This partnership approach allows for more effective conservation and habitat restoration efforts.

Governance and Leadership

The NWTF is led by co-CEOs Jason Burckhalter and Kurt Dyroff, with a strong national board of directors guiding its mission. The organization collaborates with state and federal agencies, as well as private entities, to advance its conservation goals.

Impact and Future Directions

In the decades since its founding, the NWTF has become a leading voice in wildlife conservation and hunting advocacy. Moving forward, the organization plans to continue bolstering research and habitat delivery, especially in areas experiencing wild turkey population declines. Its ongoing efforts aim to ensure robust wild turkey populations, while promoting healthy ecosystems and championing the American hunting lifestyle.