National Wild Turkey Federation Inc

Overview

The National Wild Turkey Federation Inc. (NWTF) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of the hunting heritage. Founded in 1973 by Tom Rodgers, the NWTF has played a significant role in wildlife conservation, contributing to one of the most successful conservation stories in North America.

History

In 1973, when the NWTF was founded, there were approximately 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America. Through dedicated efforts and strategic conservation initiatives, this number has grown to nearly 7 million birds[1][4]. The NWTF achieved this success by focusing on science-based conservation methods and by advocating for hunters' rights.

Mission and Vision

The NWTF's mission revolves around three core principles:

• Conservation of the Wild Turkey: The organization works tirelessly to ensure robust wild turkey populations across North America.
• Preservation of Hunting Heritage: Efforts are directed toward maintaining the tradition of hunting while promoting sustainable outdoor practices.
• Habitat Conservation: Protecting and enhancing habitats essential for wild turkeys and other wildlife is a central part of the NWTF's strategy[5].

Programs and Initiatives

Research and Conservation

The NWTF invests significantly in wild turkey research, contributing over $9 million to research projects since its inception. It hosts the Wild Turkey Symposium, bringing together leading researchers to advance wild turkey management and conservation[1].

Habitat Development

The NWTF has conserved or enhanced more than 22 million acres of wildlife habitat across North America. This includes large-scale restoration efforts, such as the "Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt." initiative, which aims to conserve millions of acres of essential habitat[1][4].

Community Engagement

Programs like the "Women in the Outdoors" initiative and youth education efforts are designed to introduce more people to the outdoors and foster a broader appreciation for conservation and hunting heritage[4].

Policy Advocacy

The NWTF actively advocates for conservation policies at both state and federal levels, working closely with federal agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the USDA Forest Service to promote better funding for habitat restoration[1][5].

Partnerships and Funding

The NWTF partners with state wildlife agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private donors to leverage funding and multiply its impact. It has a strong track record of leveraging each dollar raised into at least four dollars through these partnerships[1].

Achievements and Impact

The NWTF's efforts have been instrumental in the recovery of wild turkey populations and have contributed significantly to broader conservation objectives. Its "Target 2000" initiative and other programs have set the stage for future conservation challenges and opportunities[3].