Salt Creek Gobblers Celebrate Conservation at Annual Banquet
Over the past weekend, members of the National Wild Turkey Federation in central Utah enjoyed an evening spent socializing and celebrating conservation at the 27th annual Salt Creek Gobblers banquet and auction in Nephi, Utah.
Despite facing challenges from a snowstorm, the event saw a remarkable turnout, with attendees braving the weather to show their support. The cherished community tradition featured an array of activities including live and silent auctions, games for all ages, and a meal provided for all attendees.
The event opened with a moment of reflection and gratitude, to honor veterans and first responders with a special coin ceremony. Additionally, all young attendees were generously gifted a T-shirt and fishing pole, courtesy of dedicated sponsors, promoting outdoor exploration and recreation among the next generation.
Among the highlights of the evening was the balloon pop game, where attendees eagerly awaited their turn to pop one of the 340 balloons, each containing a valuable prize. The anticipation was palpable as participants vied for the chance to win items such as firearms and gun safes. Several other games awarded participants with firearms, gun safes, and other smaller prizes, culminating in the distribution of three gun safes and over 30 guns throughout the banquet.
Beyond the entertainment, attendees had the opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts, as proceeds from the live auction were allocated back to the chapter to support the NWTF's mission.
The event's success was made possible by the dedication and hard work of the organizing committee, whose efforts in setting up, managing and dismantling the event were instrumental in its success.
Looking ahead, the Salt Creek Gobblers chapter eagerly anticipates its upcoming 27th annual JAKES event, scheduled for June 1, 2024. This event offers youth aged 17 and under a day of free outdoor education and adventure, featuring activities such as archery, shotguns, muzzleloaders, fishing and a climbing wall.
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 positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $9 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.