RESEARCH SUCCESSES

WILD TURKEY RESEARCH

Largest Investment in Wild Turkey Research to Date

In 2023, the NWTF Foundation continued its dedicated focus on supporting critical wild turkey research for the second consecutive year. Although the NWTF has a longstanding history as a research organization, the challenges faced by wild turkey populations, coupled with emerging questions in wild turkey ecology and management, underscored the imperative to invest in research that shapes the future conservation and management strategies for this beloved bird.

This year marked a significant milestone as the NWTF Foundation, buoyed by a generous contribution from Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, made a historic investment of $582,374 in wild turkey research. These funds were strategically distributed among 10 crucial projects spanning nine states. The outcomes of these projects are anticipated to provide valuable insights guiding the future management of wild turkey populations. Importantly, this investment was not isolated; it leveraged matching partner funds, resulting in a total investment exceeding $9 million. For detailed information on these projects, interested individuals can explore further.

When combined with the NWTF's research investment in 2022, the organization has allocated over $1.2 million toward wild turkey research from June 2022 to the present. The impact of this investment is further magnified by matching funds from partners, resulting in a cumulative total of nearly $12 million. This sustained commitment to research reflects the NWTF Foundation's dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and ensuring a sustainable future for wild turkeys.