Each of us has our own holiday traditions we use to celebrate the holiday season, likely involving the spirit of giving to other. The Southeast Idaho Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is no exception.

     Each year NWTF makes a donation to the Idaho Food Bank — an organization dedicated to feeding those in need.  In years past, the group has graciously donated turkeys to help feed families during the holidays.  This year, it presented a $500 check to the worthy cause.

     “The Idaho Food Bank is excited to accept the $500 from the Southeast Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation,”  said Joye Jones, branch manager of the Idaho Food Bank. “We recognize and appreciate all the time, effort and energy that it takes to coordinate a fund drive, especially at the holidays.”

     Jones said that the money will help provide 1,500 meals for hungry individuals and families in East Idaho.

     The NWTF has also participated in the annual Sportsmen Against Hunger since its inception a few years ago. This event also provides food and money donations to the Idaho Food Bank.

     Simply put, the local chapter of the NWTF is not just a sportsmen’s organization that promotes wildlife conservation (such as the planting of over 1,600 trees to benefit wildlife habitat), it is also dedicated to helping individuals and families in communities throughout southeast Idaho.

     This chapter has been involved in youth hunter mentoring programs, women’s outdoor workshops and outdoor events and hunting opportunities for the disabled. It has even sponsored 14 Eagle Scout projects since 2008. Through its Turkey Hunters Care program, it has now once again supported the Idaho Food Bank.

     How do they do it?

     The Southeast Idaho Chapter of the NWTF has a dedicated, generous corps of members who commit time and energy to important causes.  They also hold a successful banquet/fundraiser every year that raises money for these causes.  If you would like to support the NWTF’s efforts in conservation and community involvement, plan on attending its next banquet in March.

     Of course, there are other wonderful sportsmen’s organizations in southeast Idaho that are also dedicated to wildlife conservation and community programs.

     Most recently, the Southeast Idaho Mule Deer Foundation contributed about $10,000 worth of seed to help landowners re-vegetate their properties affected by the Charlotte Fire. They also made a donation to the nearly $4,000 reward being offered in the Inkom trophy buck poaching case, and they were a major donor to the Blackrock I-15 deer fence project, which was completed this spring.

     Every year, the Southeast Idaho Flyfishers donate money and equipment to the Trout in the Classroom (TIC) programs in southeast Idaho.   In 2005, there was one TIC program in the region, and now there are approximately 16.  And of course, SEIFF is a regular fixture at the Sportsmen Against Hunger Event every January in Pocatello.

     As you can see, southeast Idaho has no shortage of those who give back to the community — whether to those with fur, fins and feathers, or to those without.  Throughout 2013, I will highlight other sportsmens groups and conservation organizations like NWTF in the region.

     Keep an eye out for those articles!  I think you will be inspired and encouraged by what others are doing for the wildlife resource in this region and for those who cherish it.

     Jennifer Jackson is the Regional Conservation Educator for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, southeast region.