The Kansas State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) recently met in Hays to review Hunting Heritage Super Fund project proposals for 2024 funding awards, earmarking nearly $2 million for projects in 2024.
After the reviewing and ranking process, proposals were presented to and approved by the NWTF Kansas Board of Directors. The state board budgeted $55,750 for conservation projects and $33,486.92 for other projects, including outreach-education events, state scholarships and 4-H Shooting Sports support.
NWTF award funding will be matched with nearly $2 million in partner funds for the approved projects.
“NWTF volunteers are vital to the organization, and this is especially true in Kansas,” said Annie Farrell, NWTF district biologist for Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Nebraska. “I commend their efforts for supporting projects that drive our mission, both in Kansas and across the country. 2024 will be another great year for the NWTF in the Sunflower State.”
The $55,750 directed at Kansas habitat conservation objectives include:
- $10,000 in carry-over funds from FY23 projects, including the Fort Riley pollinator planting and the US Fish and Wildlife Service Red Hills region projects still in progress.
- $5,500 to support the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in the purchase of two UTV spray units for prescribed burning.
- $5,000 to support Jamestown Wildlife Area with invasive species removal.
- $15,000 3-year commitment to Kansas State University’s wild turkey research project.
- $5,000 to support Boy Scouts of America Quivira Scout Ranch with invasive species control.
- $1,250 to support the Route 36 PBA with the purchase of radios to be used on prescribed burns.
- $13,000 to support NWTF’s Waterways for Wildlife Initiative ($10,000) and National RFP for research ($3,000).
- $1,000 to support wild turkey restoration efforts in Kansas.
In addition, $33,486.92 was approved to support education/outreach efforts in Kansas including JAKES, WITO, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, the Kansas state scholarship and shooting sports projects. Specific project awards include:
- $3,365 in carry-over funds from FY23 projects, including Hays High School Trap Team and Midway District 4-H shooting sports projects.
- $15,719.50 to support the Kansas 4-H Foundation, Midway District 4-H shooting sports, Wellington Christian Academy and Ellis County 4-H trap team projects.
- $1,000 to support JAKES, Wheelin’ Sportsmen and WITO events.
- $2,000 for the Kansas state scholarship.
- $3,695.74 for volunteer travel to convention and leadership meetings.
- $7,706.68 for law enforcement support, NWTF JAKES trailer maintenance, project signs and other miscellaneous expenses.
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 50th Anniversary, 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 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.
