America's Big Six

America’s Big Six of Wildlife Conservation

The NWTF has taken a more strategic approach to conservation delivery with the introduction of its Big Six. NWTF conservation experts identified regions across the country with similar ecosystems and conservation issues. Six areas of concern were established to help identify the most urgent needs and better monitor conservation objectives and are listed below.

This application will allow the NWTF and its partners to better focus limited funding and staff on the top priority conservation needs within each region. The improved system no longer focuses on individual areas, but will impact the sustainability of species and habitats across large landscapes.

The areas of distinction within the Big Six include 738 million acres of identified focal landscapes. The NWTF’s limited funds will have a greater impact in meeting the conservation needs within each region. This process will also ensure wild turkey populations, health and stability for future generations.

Conservation needs within the Big Six are:

• Improve habitat diversity
• Improve forest health
• Improve pine management
• Improve water quality
• Increase winter wildlife survival
• Maintain healthy hardwood forests
• Restore oak woodlands and savannas
• Restore prairies
• Stop habitat loss

The NWTF has had great success in delivering conservation dollars to restoring and managing the big conservation issues of concern. The Big Six conservation strategy takes conservation delivery to the next level. It will also raise awareness and help partners understand how their efforts and funding help the bigger picture of conservation.