The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is a nonprofit dedicated to conserving wild turkeys and preserving America’s hunting heritage. Founded in 1973, the NWTF has grown into one of the most effective conservation organizations in North America, investing millions of dollars into habitat enhancement, wildlife research, hunter education, and community programs for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Local NWTF chapters operate under the umbrella of larger state chapters…in this case the Pennsylvania State Chapter — but they are crucial grassroots organizations that engage directly with their communities. Pennsylvania’s state chapter alone includes over 70 local chapters, collectively involving tens of thousands of members, including youth and women’s programs like JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship) and WITO (Women in the Outdoors).
In Greene County, one of the most active and visible NWTF chapters is known locally as the Warrior Trail Gobblers. Founded in Waynesburg in the mid-1990s, this chapter has become a hub for conservation, education, and outdoor heritage in southwestern Pennsylvania.
At the heart of the chapter’s mission is engagement with youth and the broader community. The Warrior Trail Gobblers are especially notable for their commitment to youth outreach through the JAKES program. JAKES, started in 2013, began with a $1,000 donations from five different corporations.
In 2014 the event was moved to Hunting Hills Sporting Complex. Jakes events offer youngsters structured, fun opportunities to learn about wildlife habitat, safe and ethical hunting practices, outdoor skills, and the value of conservation. These events often include activities such as archery, shooting sports, turkey calling, trapping demonstrations, and fishing, all designed to connect kids and their families with the outdoors — and they are offered at no cost to participants.
One of the chapter’s signature events is JAKES Day, held annually during Pennsylvania’s youth-only turkey hunting season. Hundreds of participants, including both kids and adults, gather for games, educational activities, contests, and chances to win prizes. This event not only teaches valuable skills but also fosters a strong sense of community and appreciation for wildlife stewardship.
As a local nonprofit driven by volunteers and sponsors, the Greene County chapter also hosts an annual banquet that serves dual purposes: fostering social connections and raising funds to support its conservation and educational programs. Recent banquets have drawn strong local support and notable contributions from area businesses, raising thousands of dollars that are funneled back into wildlife habitat projects and other initiatives.
The impact of the Greene County chapter and its efforts goes beyond turkey conservation. Through habitat improvement activities and partnerships with organizations such as the Pennsylvania Game Commission, NWTF volunteers contribute to broader wildlife management goals that benefit species across the landscape. Moreover, by engaging families, landowners, and young hunters, the chapter helps sustain traditions and ethical outdoor practices that strengthen local culture and stewardship values.
The Warrior Trails Gobblers branch of the NWTF has three major events starting on March 21, with their annual banquet being held at the Greene County Fairgrounds. The annual Jakes event is held April 25 (PA youth hunting day) at Hunting Hills shooting preserve. And finally on May 2 at Hunting Hills, they have their Veterans Hunt.
The chapter has experienced great success over the last ten years on both the state and national level. The success of the Jakes program has fueled most of this growth. Thirteen years ago, they had 37 youths participate and last year they had 192…and they are growing.
Please tune into the Greene Scene Podcast (NWTF podcast) to find out more exciting information on this wonderful organization. If you would like tickets to the banquet, or to volunteer or make a donation to this outstanding organization, you can contact:
Warrior Trail Gobblers, 151 Plantz Ridge Road, New Freeport PA., 15352. Or you can contact: Hunter Moore 724-833-3477, Nick Bragg 304-276-7923, Guy Hostutler 724-350-1062, or Jim Garber 724-998-6779.
