Advocating for Conservation: NWTF’s Impact on State and Federal Policy
NWTF staff collaborates with volunteers, partners and policymakers to pinpoint and address issues impacting wildlife management, land conservation and hunting rights. By partnering with both state and federal lawmakers and agencies, the NWTF drives advocacy efforts aimed at safeguarding hunters' rights and enhancing conservation efforts effectively across many landscapes.
During the NWTF Convention, a conservation policy meeting convened to discuss emerging and ongoing policy issues at both state and federal levels. The NWTF's involvement in federal policy is extensive, involving partnerships with diverse stakeholders, sportsmen’s coalitions, federal agencies and congressional representatives to amplify the collective voice of our members in Washington, D.C. This federal policy engagement is pivotal in advancing our mission, exemplified by our collaboration with Congress to ensure that Farm Bill programs continue to play a vital role in conserving America's natural resources, preserving the wild turkey population and upholding our hunting heritage.
After the recent expiration of the Farm Bill in September 2023, a continuing resolution enacted on November 16, 2023, temporarily revived and extended programs until September 30, 2024. Anticipating this deadline, the NWTF advocating for a renewal starting in early 2024.
NWTF's engagement in state-level policy seeks to influence legislation and regulations relevant to our mission, members and the broader sporting community. Participation in State Sportsmen's Caucuses and events like "Camo at the Capitol" provides platforms for hunters, anglers and conservationists to voice their concerns.
Currently, NWTF state chapters and staff nationwide are actively involved in a variety of legislative actions covering a broad spectrum of topics including access, habitat management, wildlife preservation, hunting traditions, wild turkey conservation, firearms regulations, fees, and funding and fundraising.
The NWTF Convention serves as a crucial gathering for conservation leaders nationwide, offering a forum to discuss pertinent issues and emerging policies, fostering mutual support and advancing the overarching mission of NWTF.
Learn more about the NWTF’s policy and advocacy work.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $9 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.