East Dakota Chapter Holds 30th Annual Banquet
On April 1, 2023, the East Dakota Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation held its 30th annual banquet in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The banquet raised funds for wildlife conservation projects and preserving hunting heritage in the state.
At the banquet, 204 attendees enjoyed a meal and had the opportunity to participate in silent and live auctions and several raffles. These activities raised funds and awareness to support the NWTF’s conservation initiatives.
During the banquet, plaques were awarded to donors who have generously supported the chapter and banquet over the past 30 years. Additionally, five members of the East Dakota committee — Dean Schueler, Duane Albers, Jon Soderholm, Ron Schauer and Mark Anderson — were recognized and honored with plaques for their dedication to the chapter for 30 years.
During the banquet, South Dakota Rep. Jessica Bahmuller presented the NWTF East Dakota Chapter with the 50th Anniversary legislative commemoration, recognizing the NWTF’s pivotal role in wildlife management research, habitat conservation and preservation of outdoor traditions in the United States. Randy Gaskins, NWTF senior regional director, read the commemoration to those present at the event.
The NWTF East Dakota Chapter holds the distinction of being the longest-running chapter in South Dakota. In recognition of its exceptional contributions to conservation efforts, the NWTF awarded the East Dakota Chapter the prestigious Golden Gobbler status (50% net-to-gross profit), which only 18 chapters across the nation have achieved for over 25 years — 29 consecutive years for the East Dakota Chapter. Moreover, the chapter has raised over $1.5 million to support conservation initiatives since 1993.
For more information, contact Michael Brown at (605) 360-0709. Brown is a 30-year member and volunteer with the East Dakota Chapter and has been a committee member since 2017.
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 conserved or enhanced over 22 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The organization continues to drive wildlife conservation, forest resiliency and robust recreational opportunities throughout the U.S. by working across boundaries on a landscape scale.
2023 is the NWTF's 50th anniversary and an opportunity to propel the organization's mission into the future while honoring its rich history. For its 50-year celebration, the NWTF has set six ambitious goals: positively impact 1 million acres of wildlife habitat; raise $500,000 for wild turkey research; increase membership to 250,000 members; dedicate $1 million to education and outreach programs; raise $5 million to invest in technology and the NWTF's people; and raise $5 million to build toward a $50 million endowment for the future. Learn how you can help us reach these lofty goals.