WMOK – Metropolis, IL – The Shawnee National Forest was honored with the prestigious Conservation Education award during the National Wild Turkey Federation’s (NWTF) 50th annual Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak. This award recognizes outstanding contributions to conservation education, partnerships, and wild turkey management.
The Shawnee National Forest earned recognition for its Wheelin’ Sportsmen Hunt, which marked a significant achievement in promoting awareness and opportunities for disabled veterans. Forest Service representatives Dennis Wilson and Justin Dodson, along with NWTF volunteer Michael Howie, were acknowledged for their efforts in organizing a successful inaugural turkey hunt for four disabled veterans, three of whom were able to harvest a turkey.
This initiative was made possible through collaboration between the Illinois NWTF State Chapter, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Forest Service, and the Illinois Chapter of The Fallen Outdoors, a nonprofit focused on connecting veterans with nature’s therapeutic benefits.
Michael Howie, the NWTF Illinois state Wheelin’ Sportsmen coordinator, expressed gratitude for the recognition: “Seeing the work the NWTF did to build the turkey population back up was awesome. We’re very humbled to win this award. I’m amazed and very honored.”
The NWTF also presented awards in additional categories, recognizing the vital contributions of other projects and individuals, including the Partnership Achievement Award to the Boise National Forest and Eldorado National Forest, as well as individual awards to Cecily Mui for the Advancing Shared Stewardship Award and Kelle Reynolds for the Dena Holmes Collaboration Award.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation: Since 1973, the NWTF has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation, positively impacting over 25 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. In recent years, the organization has dedicated over $2.3 million to wild turkey research, raising more than $22 million for effective population management. The NWTF continues its mission through collaborative efforts aimed at fostering healthy forests, wildlife habitats, clean water, and robust recreational opportunities.
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