Pennsylvania NWTF Turns 50

The NWTF’s roots grew in Pennsylvania from the beginning. Though the organization was chartered in Virginia and ultimately found a home in South Carolina, much of its history was made in the Keystone State.

For 50 years, the Pennsylvania NWTF State Chapter has been committed to the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage, and its current members will celebrate the state chapter’s impact in 2025. That celebration begins with the Pennsylvania Rendezvous on Jan. 3-4, 2025, at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, the birthplace of the NWTF National Convention in 1977.

“As we look back on the history of the NWTF in Pennsylvania, we remember the impact the NWTF has had in our state,” said Steve Shireman, chairman of the PANWTF Board of Directors. “From bringing back a healthy population of wild turkey to creating a rich hunting heritage that spans generations, Pennsylvania was integral in making the NWTF what it is today. As we celebrate 50 years, we look forward to coming home, so to speak, to the Hershey Lodge where our first National Convention was held. We look forward to a fantastic celebration in January. Most importantly, we look forward to another 50 years of conservation success in PA.”

The two-day event in Hershey will recognize the state chapter’s 50th anniversary with a social gathering and trivia challenge on Friday, Jan. 3, followed by Saturday’s seminars and awards banquet to culminate the historic event. In addition, the Keystone Callmaking Competition will be held in conjunction with the Rendezvous.

“For 50 years, the dedicated volunteers of the NWTF in Pennsylvania have tirelessly worked to conserve our wild turkey populations and preserve our hunting heritage,” said David Boston, PANWTF State Chapter president. “As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to commemorating 50 years of success and dedication with our members at the 2025 PANWTF Rendezvous and awards dinner.”

In 1975, the Pennsylvania Wild Turkey Federation joined the NWTF with an established commitment to wild turkey conservation, something sorely needed for the fledgling organization.

This January, that history and its impact will be celebrated in Hershey once again. To reserve lodging, members can call (855) 729-3108 and ask for the PANWTF room block at the Hershey Lodge.

Event registration Link: https://events.nwtf.org/381270-2025/tickets

Hotel Room Link: https://reservations.hersheypa.com

Keystone Callmaking Link: http://panwtf.squarespace.com/keystone-classic-callmaking-competition