The comeback of the wild turkey is one of the great Georgia conservation success stories. Statewide, these birds now number approximately 350,000; but as recently as 1973, the wild turkey population was as low as 17,000. Intensive restoration efforts, such as the re-stocking of wild birds and increased emphasis on biologically sound hunting seasons, have helped re-establish turkeys in suitable habitat in every county. This resurgence is due to the efforts of private landowners, hunters and conservation organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation.

The Georgia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), in partnership with WRD, has approved more than $2.7 million since 1987, and more than $251,000 during the past year, on projects that benefit wild turkeys and other wildlife. There are 99 active chapters of the NWTF in Georgia and membership totals more than 15,000.

For more information on turkey hunting in Georgia, visit the WRD website at www.gohuntgeorgia.com, contact a WRD Game Management Office or call the Hunter Services Office at 770-761-3044.