The NWTF: People That Make It Click

By Fred Lutger

The National Wild Turkey Federation was established in 1973 in Fredericksburg, VA. Shortly after it’s founding the national headquarters moved to its present location in Edgefield, SC. 

During the past 32 years the U.S.'s wild turkey population has increased from an estimated 1.3 Million turkeys to today’s estimated 6.5 Million birds. In that same time period the number of turkey hunters has nearly doubled to 2.6 million.

These numbers didn’t just happen. This was a direct result of the hard work of the NWTF, it’s associates, partners and the past and present members that now number 520,000. 

It takes many dedicated full time workers to manage this huge non-profit organization. I have met several of these “behind the scenes” people while covering the annual convention and sports show. 

One such person you should know is Jonathan Harling.

Jonathan is the NWTF Public Relations Manager. Harling worked as a public relations specialist for 4 years before his promotion to PR Manager. 

The public relations team of 5 people is responsible for providing information about the NWTF to the media. Their responsibilities include writing press releases, scripts for TV, video and audio and maintaining the NWTF web sight www.nwtf.org. The team also works on PR campaigns, one of the most recent, Take A Soldier Hunting.

Jonathan is married to wife and best friend Mandy. Mandy also works for the NWTF. She is the Jakes program manager. They have a 19-month-old son, Jackson.

His dad introduced Jonathan to hunting. “I became an avid turkey hunter when I started working for the NWTF. I have hunted turkey in SD, AL, CA and NM and other states.” Jonathan exclaimed with enthusiasm. “This has given me the opportunity to see the sights and sounds of other places. I get to experience places away from my home state of SC.”

Harling is involved with the Edgefield Dixie Youth baseball program. “I work with kids starting with T-ball thru 14 year olds.” said Harling. Jonathan and Mandy are also involved members of the Edgefield Baptist Church.

Jonathon, I salute you, your team and all the dedicated workers that have made the NWTF what it is today. Thanks for your effort and I’ll see you at next year’s convention.

Fred Lutger