National Wild Turkey Federation Inc

The National Wild Turkey Federation Inc is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, the NWTF is a leading force in wildlife conservation efforts across North America.

Mission

The NWTF's mission is to conserve the wild turkey and preserve the hunting tradition. This mission is achieved through scientific wildlife management, habitat conservation, and education programs. The organization emphasizes the importance of science-based conservation practices and collaborates with hunters, conservationists, and wildlife agencies to achieve its goals.

History

In the early 1970s, concerns over declining wild turkey populations and habitat loss prompted the formation of the NWTF. Initially, there were approximately 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America. Through concerted efforts, this number has increased significantly, reaching around 7 million by the early 2020s.

Conservation Achievements

The NWTF has achieved several notable conservation milestones:

• Habitat Conservation: The organization has conserved or enhanced over 22 million acres of wildlife habitat.
• Research Funding: It has contributed more than $9 million to wild turkey research projects, with significant funding allocated in recent years.
• Population Restoration: The NWTF has facilitated the transfer of over 192,000 wild turkeys to suitable habitats across North America, playing a crucial role in population recovery efforts.
• Outreach Programs: The NWTF supports programs like JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship), Women in the Outdoors, and Wheelin' Sportsmen, which aim to introduce people to outdoor activities and conservation ethics.

Programs and Partnerships

The NWTF engages in several key programs and partnerships:

• Making Tracks: This initiative involves collaborations with state, federal, and provincial agencies to restore wild turkey populations in suitable habitats.
• Regional Habitat Programs: These programs provide resources for habitat improvement across different regions in North America.
• Partnerships: The NWTF works closely with the USDA Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and other state and federal agencies to advance conservation objectives.

Advocacy and Policy

The NWTF is active in advocating for legislative support that benefits wildlife conservation and hunting access. It has influenced several major conservation bills, including the Farm Bill and the Great American Outdoors Act.

Membership and Impact

With over 250,000 members across North America, the NWTF's efforts are bolstered by a strong volunteer base and partnerships with various organizations. Its work not only benefits wild turkeys but also contributes to healthy ecosystems and communities.