Organ, J.F. The North American model of wildlife conservation and wild turkey management: the future. Pages 19-23 in D.E. Miller, editor, Proceedings of the eleventh national wild turkey symposium. Allen Press, Lawrence, Kansas, USA.
Abstract
Seven principles comprise the concept known as the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. Each of these principles has been employed for restoring and managing wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). Today, we enjoy abundant populations and hunting opportunities, but potential threats could erode these in the future. These include trends towards commercialization and privatization, reduced land access for hunting, erosion of science, public antipathy towards hunting, and reduction of forest habitat quality due to limitations on forest management practices. Herein, I discuss each of these elements and challenges of maintaining relevance of the North American Model to wild turkey management.