National Wild Turkey Federation

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, it has more than 250,000 members across North America, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, and 14 other countries.

Background

In the early 1970s, when the NWTF was established, the wild turkey population in North America was approximately 1.3 million. Through concerted efforts in conservation and habitat restoration, the federation has contributed significantly to increasing this number to more than 7 million turkeys, marking one of the greatest success stories in wildlife conservation[1][2].

Mission and Activities

The NWTF's mission is focused on conserving wild turkeys and preserving the American hunting lifestyle. It achieves these goals through various programs and partnerships:

• Conservation Efforts: The NWTF has facilitated the improvement of more than 17 million acres of wildlife habitat on public, private, and corporate lands. It supports scientific wildlife management and invests heavily in projects that enhance habitat for wild turkeys and other species[1][2].
• Research and Education: The organization supports crucial wild turkey research, often partnering with academic and agency scientists to drive informed management practices[1]. It also offers educational programs to promote outdoor skills among diverse groups.
• Partnerships: NWTF collaborates with federal and state wildlife agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations, to conduct research and implement conservation projects.

Programs and Initiatives

• Making Tracks: This program involves the reintroduction of wild turkeys to suitable habitats across North America. Since its inception, more than 192,000 wild turkeys have been relocated[2].
• Regional Habitat Programs: The NWTF operates several regional programs focused on habitat improvement, including Operation Appleseed, Operation Oak, and others, to enhance wildlife environments across different regions[2].
• JAKES and Women in the Outdoors: These programs aim to engage young people and women in outdoor activities and wildlife conservation[2].

Advocacy

NWTF advocates for policies supporting conservation and hunting heritage at both federal and state levels. It has been instrumental in shaping legislation related to wildlife conservation, such as the Great American Outdoors Act[1].

Financial Impact

NWTF has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in conservation efforts and leverages funding to maximize its impact, often achieving a return of at least four times the amount raised[1]. The organization has contributed over $9 million to wild turkey research projects and has spent more than $372 million on habitat conservation and outreach[1][2].