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The Wild Turkey
Cooperator patch program was initiated in 1988 as an
incentive for hunters to voluntarily check their
wild turkeys at one of the field office check
stations. Starting in 1992, rather than checking
birds in the field, hunters were offered the
opportunity to receive a patch by mailing the
wing-tip feathers and breast feathers from their
harvested bird to the Rose Lake Wildlife Laboratory.
Wildlife biologists examined the feathers to
determine sex and age.
Unfortunately, as
turkey patches became collectable items, some people
falsely submitted feathers solely to receive a
patch. This practice jeopardized the credibility of
the data, making it necessary to end the cooperator
patch program. Our researchers believe that our mail
survey process will continue to provide us with
accurate biological information.
Fortunately,
beginning in 2002, the Michigan chapter of the
National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), in
partnership with the DNR, initiated a new Michigan
wild turkey patch program. This program allows you
to
help design
the turkey patch!
Previous Turkey Patches
Michigan's wild
turkey patch program is coordinated by the Michigan
Chapter of NWTF and turkey patches are obtained
through this organization. Young hunters, ages
10-17, who have a valid wild turkey hunting license
may receive a free patch. Adult hunters, collectors
and other interested individuals may purchase the
patch for $5, which includes postage and handling.
To receive a patch, please send name and complete
address, along with a legible copy of the youth's
valid wild turkey hunting license, to:
National Wild Turkey Federation
Wild Turkey Patch Program
P.O. Box 8
Orleans, Michigan 48865
Individuals who
are purchasing the patch should make their check or
money order payable to the National Wild Turkey
Federation. You do not have to harvest a turkey to
purchase a patch.
The NWTF is a
not-for-profit organization dedicated to the
conservation of the American wild turkey and the
preservation of the hunting tradition. Proceeds from
patch sales will be used to fund wild turkey-related
projects in Michigan. Each year the NWTF, working
cooperatively with the DNR, contributes more than
$300,000 to wild turkey and hunter-heritage programs
in Michigan.
For information on Patches
Send to:michiganwildturkeypatch@yahoo.com |
