CEO Notes – March/April 2024
Spring is approaching, and soon the thunderous sound of gobblers will again be echoing in the woods. The sights, sounds and smells of spring wild turkey hunting season is an annual rite that countless NWTF members look forward to each year. It’s a chance to shake off the winter blues, breathe in the warming spring air and match wits with one of nature’s most cagey creatures.
And while spring may be the peak of anticipation for turkey hunters — so much so that we’ll yearn for time to rewind the moment the season ends — the passion for the outdoor lifestyle and dedication to conservation is much bigger than just a two- or three-month stint.
Turkey hunters will spend countless hours scouting public lands; we pour time, money and energy into enhancing our land for the benefit of far more than just turkeys; we share our passion with others, sparking a fire and interest for newcomers to hit the woods each spring; and, we practice calling and prepare equipment to ensure we make the most of that ideal moment when a tom struts into range! To put things simply, it is bigger than just the spring.
The same is true for this great organization. From the outside, it may be viewed that the NWTF’s reason for being is solely for the conservation of a single species, or so turkeys can be hunted each year. Though turkeys and hunting are both focal points of our mission — we have invested historic highs into wild turkey research and are working to secure the future of hunting through education and outreach — the impact that is made each year through the work of our members, volunteers, partners and staff reverberates across the country. We are positively benefiting the quality of our water, creating robust opportunities for outdoor recreation, building healthier forests and healthier wildlife populations, fortifying fire-resilient communities and much more.
There is a true passion within those associated with the NWTF that will lead to thriving wildlife populations and communities, leaving the outdoors in a better place than before. That passion derived from the NWTF mission is also uniting people around the idea that the outdoors has a life-changing power, something evident in each hunt, each education and outreach event and beyond. Because it carries on with us, it’s bigger than just the spring.
So, as we embark on the next 50 years of delivering upon the mission, we hope you are reminded of the important role the NWTF and you, the outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen, play for the benefit of so many. As stewards of the outdoors, we understand that our actions today shape the legacy we leave for future generations. We thank you for your support, welcome your input and deeply appreciate all you are doing to live out the NWTF mission.
And, while the sum may be greater than its parts, we will never take this cherished spring season for granted. Here’s to more memorable hunts and new opportunities to share your love of the outdoors with others this season!