Enhancement Hunting Permits in New Mexico Impact Conservation
In an era where environmental concerns and wildlife conservation are at the forefront of nationwide discussions, the state of New Mexico stands out as an example of dedication to conservation efforts.
Spearheaded by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, the state offers special enhancement hunting permits through raffles and auctions, an initiative that has proven to be a remarkable success.
The core objective behind these enhancement hunting permits is to direct the funds they generate toward vital projects focused on Gould’s wild turkey habitat enhancement, conservation, research and management projects within the state. In 2023 alone, the auctions and raffles raised an impressive $1.7 million. This substantial amount will play a pivotal role in safeguarding New Mexico's natural resources, ensuring they remain for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations.
"The funds generated through Gould's enhancement tags are dedicated exclusively to supporting Gould's projects and cannot be allocated for other species,” said Chuck Carpenter, NWTF district biologist in Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. “Once collected, these funds are strategically combined with Pittman-Robertson (Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration) funds, resulting in a significantly augmented financial pool available for Gould's projects and management."
“This reservoir of funding serves a dual purpose: first, it underscores the significance of Gould's within the scope of NMGFD's management priorities, enhancing their overall importance; second, it establishes a reliable and consistent funding source, ensuring the uninterrupted progression of Gould's projects and research endeavors."
In addition, collaboration with nonprofit wildlife conservation partners plays an instrumental role in driving the success of these auctions and raffles.
NMGF partners include the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, the Mule Deer Foundation, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Wild Sheep Foundation. These organizations offer enhancement licenses through auctions and raffles. The state uses all proceeds from enhancement hunts for habitat improvement, conservation, research and management projects in New Mexico.
The NWTF provides two annual Gould’s turkey enhancement permits, available through both auction and raffle. Winners of the auction and raffle for Gould’s turkey authorizations also will receive one additional turkey tag for an open over-the-counter game management unit.
The auction is conducted during the annual NWTF Convention and Sport Show in February in Nashville, Tennessee. Information regarding the convention is available on the NWTF website. The NWTF New Mexico State Chapter will hold the raffle; tickets are $20 each and the drawing is held in March. Learn more at https://nmnwtf.org/fundraising/.
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.