Conservation in College: NWTF Works to Expand Collegiate Involvement
EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Collegiate participation in the NWTF’s mission has the ability to positively impact the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage. As the NWTF seeks to increase the social acceptance of hunting and forest management, what better place to do that than where young adults are eager to learn?
Universities are great places to educate about the North American Model of Conservation. Moreover, as the NWTF has the need to create the next generation of volunteers and local chapters — as volunteers are the backbone of the NWTF — college students have the potential to create new chapters and have a lifelong relationship with the NWTF mission. Catalyzing a passion for conservation in colleges, the NWTF has hired a new Habitat for the Hatch collegiate ambassador in the Southeast, with similar positions on the horizon.
Chance Wiggins, NWTF Habitat for the Hatch collegiate ambassador, is helping shape the future of conservation by growing the NWTF’s collegiate chapters across the Southeast. His work focuses on recruiting young members, ensuring the next wave of conservationists and volunteers are engaged and ready to make an impact.
“Offering college students the opportunity to experience banquets and other events will help create a new wave of volunteers, ultimately raising more funds for the conservation of the wild turkey,” Wiggins said. “Engaging younger volunteers is also key to preserving our hunting heritage.”
College students bring fresh ideas, energy and a passion for wildlife, all of which are crucial for sustaining the NWTF’s mission.
“My goal is to create a platform for students to connect with like-minded individuals, gain hands-on experience, and make an impact on local conservation,” Wiggins said. “I want to create a space where students feel empowered to make a real difference toward conservation.”
Wiggins uses a variety of strategies to recruit college students, including campus events, social media outreach and partnerships with other organizations. Campus events, like club fairs, serve as key entry points for students who may be unfamiliar with the NWTF’s work.
Social media has become a powerful tool for recruitment and engagement, too. Established collegiate chapters actively share updates and event information, keeping students connected and informed. For new chapters, a strong social media presence can accelerate their growth and create an immediate sense of community.
“Having a dedicated staff ambassador like Chance allows for direct focus on collegiate chapters and makes it a priority,” said Tyler Briggs, NWTF Southeast director of field operations. “We also like having someone who can relate to college students and campus atmosphere.”
With the success of Wiggins’ position in the Southeast already, the NWTF is eager to expand this model to other regions. A collegiate ambassador working directly with college chapters located within regional NWTF initiatives helps share the vision more effectively. The organization is actively looking to establish a collegiate ambassador role in the Northeast, specifically within its Forests and Flocks Initiative.
“Beyond just adding new chapters, we hope to educate future generations on the importance of protecting our hunting heritage and conservation,” said Barry Woods, NWTF national director of event fundraising. “By allowing students to play a role in the success of the initiative in their own backyard, we’re fostering a deep, personal connection to conservation. The end goal is to build a strong base of young members who will one day take the NWTF to new heights.”
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a collegiate ambassador in the northeast, click here.