For Immediate Release

For more information, contact Pete Muller at (803) 637-7698 or pmuller@nwtf.net

NWTF Encouraging #ResponsibleRecreation While Turkey Hunting

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The National Wild Turkey Federation recently collaborated with industry partners to launch the #ResponsibleRecreation campaign to encourage outdoor participation while following proper COVID-19 safety protocol.

As several states across the country have closed various public lands and waterways due to lack of social distancing adherence, the NWTF and partners are advocating for #ResponsibleRecreation to ensure access to public lands and waterways ― a fundamental aspect of the NWTF’s mission ― and to prevent further closings during this national pandemic.

Guidelines the NWTF hopes individuals will follow while practicing #ResponsibleRecreation, specifically while turkey hunting, include:
• Purchase licenses and tags online and in advance of going hunting or fishing.
• Adhere to best practices to avoid COVID-19 (even while in the woods).
• Know all COVID-19 regulations in your state.
• Share the hunt in a light that respects the wildlife resources and social distancing restrictions.

The NWTF is encouraging its membership and social media base to participate and is asking conservation, hunting and outdoor organizations and companies to join in with the hashtag #ResponsibleRecreation while identifying ways to be responsible.

“These are trying times for everyone throughout our country,” NWTF CEO Becky Humphries said. “However, we want people to know that they can still safely enjoy the outdoors and hopefully harvest a spring gobbler, while being mindful of federal and state guidelines and practicing #ResponsibleRecreation.”

About the National Wild Turkey Federation
When the National Wild Turkey Federation was founded in 1973, there were about 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America. After decades of work, that number hit a historic high of almost 7 million turkeys. To succeed, the NWTF stood behind science-based conservation and hunters’ rights. Today, the NWTF is focused on the future of hunting and conservation through its Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative – a charge that mobilizes science, fundraising and devoted volunteers to conserve or enhance more than 4 million acres of essential wildlife habitat, recruit at least 1.5 million hunters and open access to 500,000 acres for hunting. For more information, visit NWTF.org.