Volcano Island Chapter Hosts Annual Banquet
EDGEFIELD, S.C. — For many turkey hunters, Hawaii is a bucket list destination for a wild turkey hunt, especially for those pursuing a U.S. Super Slam. Beyond the allure of its hunting opportunities, it’s the dedicated residents and the local NWTF chapter that are making a lasting impact on wild turkey conservation and the preservation of hunting heritage in the Aloha State.
The NWTF Volcano Island Chapter hosted its annual banquet on Feb. 22 in Captain Cook, Hawaii. Established in 1996, the chapter has consistently brought conservation-minded individuals together through this event, fostering community support for local conservation efforts.
With a long-standing commitment to conservation, the chapter has undertaken numerous projects, including planting native vegetation, constructing wildlife watering units and organizing shooting sports events. These efforts have significantly benefited Hawaii’s ecosystem, earning recognition from both hunters and non-hunters who appreciate the chapter’s dedication to conserving the island’s natural resources.
“We average around 100-200 people at the banquets,” said Jon Sabati, NWTF Hawaii State Chapter president. “The support from our community has been tremendous, and it speaks to the strong conservation ethic here in Hawaii.”
The group remains focused on growing its membership and advocating for game management plans to ensure that future conservation efforts are strategically placed for long-term success.
“We are focusing on building our membership and pushing for game management plans, so we can dedicate our projects into areas we know the work will be long lasting,” Sabati said.
In addition to habitat conservation, the Volcano Island Chapter actively supports the next generation of sportsmen and conservationists through its investments in the local 4-H shooting sports program and the Boy Scouts of America shooting sports program. These efforts aim to preserve Hawaii’s hunting heritage by equipping the younger generation with essential skills and instilling in them a deep appreciation for conservation and responsible wildlife management.
“Our members are sharing the importance of our hunting heritage and the value it brings to conservation and to our homes,” Sabati said. “Being isolated on an island there is value of our game resources which provides a healthy food source and embraces family traditions.”
By continuing to engage the community and advocate for sustainable game management, the NWTF Volcano Island Chapter remains a vital force in conserving Hawaii’s rich outdoor legacy.
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 24 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 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.