National Wild Turkey Federation Inc.

Overview

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is an international non-profit organization focused on wild turkey conservation and the preservation of hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, the NWTF has grown to include more than 250,000 members across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and 14 other countries.

Mission and Impact

The NWTF's mission is centered on conserving wild turkeys while preserving the traditions of hunting. Since its inception, the organization has played a crucial role in wildlife conservation efforts across North America. In 1973, there were about 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America; today, that number has increased to over 7 million. This significant growth is attributed to the NWTF's dedicated conservation work, including habitat preservation and restoration, along with scientifically based wildlife management practices.

Conservation Activities

• Habitat Preservation: The NWTF has been instrumental in conserving or enhancing more than 22 million acres of wildlife habitat. This effort is crucial for sustaining wild turkey populations and supporting biodiversity.
• Wild Turkey Research: The NWTF has invested substantially in wild turkey research, allocating over $9 million to research projects. This includes significant funding between 2022 and 2023 to address ongoing challenges affecting wild turkeys.
• Wild Turkey Translocations: The NWTF supports trap and transfer programs for reintroducing wild turkeys into suitable habitats. Since the 1950s, over 192,000 wild turkeys have been relocated across North America.

Outreach and Education

The NWTF promotes outdoor education through various programs:

• JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship): A youth program designed to teach children about wildlife conservation, ethics, and outdoor skills.
• Women in the Outdoors: Offers women opportunities to engage in outdoor activities while promoting conservation and hunting traditions.
• Wheelin’ Sportsmen: A program providing outdoor experiences for people with disabilities.
• Wild Turkey Symposium: Serves as a platform for scientists to discuss and advance wild turkey research and management.

Fundraising Initiatives

A major fundraising event for the NWTF is the Hunting Heritage Super Fund Banquet, which supports conservation projects and promotes hunting heritage. Since its inception, the NWTF has spent over $372 million on habitat conservation and outreach programs.

Advocacy and Partnerships

The NWTF collaborates with federal, state, and provincial wildlife agencies to advocate for policy changes that benefit wildlife conservation and hunting. The organization plays a significant role in shaping legislation like the Farm Bill and the Great American Outdoors Act.

Financial Performance

The NWTF leverages its funding effectively through partnerships, often multiplying its financial resources fourfold. This approach enables the organization to achieve significant conservation goals while maintaining a strong financial foundation.