02/28/2008
Conservationist Honored for Dedication
 Todd Holbrook and Herman "Duff" Holbrook Click image for print quality version |
ATLANTA — South Carolina's Duff Holbrook received the National Wild Turkey Federation's Lynn Boykin Hunting Heritage Award for his commitment to conservation during the 32nd annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Feb. 21 to 24.
In the 1950s, wild turkeys had been reduced to remnant and isolated populations in the Southern Appalachians and coastal plain. These wild turkey populations had to be increased, then used for reintroductions.
Working with another biologist, Holbrook modified the cannon net and the two were the first to use this method to trap and relocate wild turkeys. His personal success with the cannon net was responsible for restocking the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina. Holbrook's publication and promotion of this technique set the stage for wild turkey restoration in Tennessee, the Southeast, and the nation. It was this technique more than any other that was the foundation for today's abundance of wild turkeys.
"I'm most surprised, but this is the kindest most thoughtful thing anyone could do for me, I had no idea I was winning today," Holbrook said. "I had no idea until they started naming of achievements and I realized that what they were saying about the cannon nets were things I'd done. The Federation's accomplishments are various and beautiful and essential."
As an early spokesman for proper timber management including thinning, harvesting, and prescribed burning, Holbrook trained countless young forestry and wildlife professionals. He also raised public awareness about turkey hunting, fighting political battles needed to start spring gobbler hunting in states that knew only fall hunting in 1950. The results in terms of conservation and great enjoyment of a renewable natural resource are invaluable.
He was also an experienced turkey hunter by the early 1950s — a time when turkeys and turkey hunters were somewhat rare. His expertise included making and using wingbone calls and the use of nothing more than his voice to call turkeys. To this day, he is an avid turkey hunter.
"As an early pioneer for wild turkey conservation, it's safe to say Duff Holbrook made a huge impact on the species," said Dr. James Earl Kennamer, senior vice president of conservation programs. "Without Duff's diligence and ingenuity, turkey populations and turkey hunting wouldn't be what it is today."
The Lynn Boykin Hunting Heritage Award is given in honor of the woman for whom it is named. Boykin was a former president and chairman of the board of the NWTF. During her tenure, she emphasized the importance of the hunting heritage. Her leadership forged a new outlook for the NWTF. Today, the NWTF's effort to celebrate and preserve North America's hunting heritage is some of its most important work.
