National Wild Turkey Federation Inc.

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is a private, non-profit conservation and education organization dedicated to the conservation of wild turkeys and the preservation of hunting heritage.

History

The NWTF was founded in 1973 by Tom Rodgers, an insurance salesman and syndicated outdoor writer, primarily to address the declining wild turkey populations due to habitat loss and other environmental factors[5]. At the time of its inception, there were approximately 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America[1][5]. Over the years, through concerted conservation efforts, the wild turkey population has grown to over 7 million[1][2].

Mission and Programs

The organization's mission focuses on science-based conservation and habitat management. It supports research projects and coordinates habitat improvement across millions of acres of private, public, and corporate lands[1][2]. Key programs include the Wild Turkey Partnership Agreements and the Making Tracks initiative, which involve partnerships with state and federal wildlife agencies to restore wild turkey populations and manage habitats effectively[2].

Achievements

The NWTF has achieved significant milestones in conservation:

• Conservation Funding: The organization has invested more than $372 million in habitat conservation and related programs[2].
• Habitat Enhancement: More than 22 million acres of wildlife habitat have been conserved or enhanced since the NWTF's founding[1].
• Research and Education: The NWTF supports wild turkey research and educational initiatives, such as the Wild Turkey Symposium, which gathers experts to discuss wild turkey management and conservation strategies[1].
• Membership and Outreach: The NWTF has over 250,000 members across the United States and internationally. It runs programs like JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, and Sportsmanship), Women in the Outdoors, and Wheelin' Sportsmen, aiming to introduce people to outdoor skills and wildlife management[2].

Fundraising and Advocacy

The NWTF's primary fundraising event is the Hunting Heritage Super Fund Banquet, which supports conservation projects and promotes hunting traditions[2]. The organization also advocates for policies supporting wildlife conservation and federal land management through legislative efforts[1].