National Wild Turkey Federation Inc.

The National Wild Turkey Federation Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, the NWTF has played a pivotal role in wildlife conservation and has grown to become one of the largest and most influential wildlife conservation groups in North America, with over 250,000 members.

History

In the early 1970s, when wild turkey populations in North America had dwindled to about 1.3 million, the organization was formed to address habitat loss and declining turkey numbers. The NWTF was officially founded by Tom Rodgers in 1973, marking the beginning of an era focused on restoring and managing wild turkey populations. By the turn of the century, populations had increased significantly, thanks to efforts like the "Target 2000" initiative, which aimed to restock wild turkeys across suitable habitats.

Mission

The mission of the NWTF is two-fold:

• Conservation: The organization works to create, manage, and restore habitats beneficial for wild turkeys. This includes the conservation of millions of acres of public, private, and corporate lands.
• Preservation of Hunting Heritage: The NWTF supports hunting traditions and promotes the importance of hunting in wildlife management.

Conservation Efforts

The NWTF has contributed to several key initiatives:

• Habitat Conservation: Over 17 million acres of habitat have been conserved or enhanced, benefiting not only wild turkeys but also numerous other species.
• Research and Education: The organization supports scientific research and educational programs to better understand wild turkey behavior and management needs.
• Partnerships: The NWTF collaborates with state, federal, and provincial wildlife agencies, as well as corporate partners, to achieve conservation goals.

Programs and Outreach

Key programs include:

• Hunting Heritage Super Fund Banquets: These events serve as primary fundraisers for conservation projects and outreach initiatives.
• JAKES and Women in the Outdoors: Programs designed to introduce youth and women to the outdoors, promoting conservation awareness and outdoor skills.
• Wheelin' Sportsmen: Supports outdoor activities for individuals with disabilities.

Financial and Impact

The NWTF has leveraged millions of dollars to support conservation efforts, achieving a significant return on investment by fostering partnerships that increase its financial impact four-fold or more. It has also contributed significantly to wild turkey research projects, bolstering conservation efforts across North America.

The NWTF's impact extends beyond wildlife conservation, contributing to broader environmental and community health initiatives, such as forest restoration and water management. Its success in boosting wild turkey numbers and preserving hunting traditions underscores its role as a leader in wildlife conservation and outdoor education.