National Wild Turkey Federation Inc.

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of American hunting heritage. Founded in 1973 by Tom Rodgers, the NWTF has grown into an international organization with over 250,000 members across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and 14 other countries.

Mission

The NWTF is focused on achieving two primary goals:

1. The conservation of wild turkeys through habitat enhancement and science-based management practices.
2. The preservation of the hunting lifestyle, which involves promoting ethical hunting practices and supporting conservation efforts that benefit not just turkeys, but a wide range of wildlife and ecosystems.

History

In the early 1970s, the wild turkey population in North America was declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation. When the NWTF was established in 1973, there were approximately 1.3 million wild turkeys. Through concerted conservation efforts, this number has increased significantly to over 7 million today[1][2].

Key milestones include:

• 1973: The NWTF was officially formed.
• 1983: The first fundraising banquet, now known as the Hunting Heritage Super Fund Banquet, was held.
• 1985: The Wild Turkey Super Fund program was established to fund conservation projects.
• 2012: The "Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt." initiative was launched to conserve millions of acres of habitat and increase hunting access[2][5].

Conservation Efforts

The NWTF has been instrumental in enhancing more than 22 million acres of wildlife habitat, primarily through its partnerships with state and federal agencies, corporations, and private landowners[1][2]. It also supports scientific research on wild turkeys, contributing millions of dollars to these efforts[1]. Programs like "Target 2000" have facilitated the reintroduction of wild turkeys into suitable habitats across North America[4].

Programs

• JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship): This program is designed to educate youth about the outdoors and hunting ethics.
• Women in the Outdoors: Provides women with opportunities to learn outdoor skills.
• Wheelin' Sportsmen: Assists individuals with disabilities in participating in outdoor activities[2].

Impact

The NWTF has spearheaded numerous legislative efforts, contributing to significant conservation bills such as the Farm Bill’s conservation title and the Great American Outdoors Act[1]. It continues to work with state and federal agencies to promote hunting heritage and conservation practices.