01/01/2026
2025 was a monumental year for the National Wild Turkey Federation.
We hosted a record-breaking convention with more than 82,000 hunters and conservationists celebrating the life-changing power of the outdoors; launched our Roots to Roost initiative in the Midwest, expanding our landscape-level conservation efforts; continued critical investments in wild turkey research and co-hosted the 13th National Wild Turkey Symposium; positively impacted nearly 1 million acres of habitat for wild turkeys and numerous other species; and touched the lives of many through our Education and Outreach programs. And 2026 is poised to be even bigger.
With our 50th Convention and Sport Show and another highly anticipated spring turkey season on the horizon, we also have some exciting news to kick off the New Year. In the coming weeks, we will share exciting updates on the expansion of NWTF endowed professorships and the hiring of the all new, mission-focused national director of wild turkey research position, among so much more geared toward conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.
None of these past or future successes would be possible without the passionate men and women who make up our members, volunteers, partners and staff. As we step into 2026, we wish you prosperity and many meaningful days in the woods and look forward to your involvement in uniting a nation through the life-changing power of the outdoors.
Jason Burckhalter and Kurt Dyroff
Photo Credit: Josh VanOmmeren