Supper to support conservation

For folks who are hungry as a hunter and want to support local conservation efforts, the Kingdom of Callaway chapter of the National Wild Turkey Foundation is hosting its annual Hunting Heritage Banquet on Friday evening.

"Colton's Steak House is sponsoring and catering the dinner," said John Burk, leader of the local chapter. "So, steak and chicken. It's actually one of the tastier banquets in town."

Burk said proceeds from ticket sales go to the NWTF's Save the Hunt initiative.

"Nationally, by 2023 the NWTF wants to enhance and conserve 4 million acres of land, recruit 1.5 million new hunters and gain access to 500,000 additional acres," Burk said. 

"Missouri's doing a chunk of that."

The Fulton chapter is a relatively small one, Burk said. Most years, about 80 to 100 people come to the dinner, half of whom are members. But they've helped contribute to Save the Hunt's goals.

"We've been involved with the governor's youth turkey hunt for nine years," Burk said. "That's serving the goal of recruiting new hunters."

On the eve of the youth turkey hunt, participants gather in Jefferson City for orientation and a trip to the Governor's Mansion.

Two of the club's members who've acted as guides for the hunt have helped kids bag a turkey every year for the last eight years, Burk said.

"One of our committee members has land near Mokane where we do a youth dove hunt," Burk said.

The group also works with land conservationist Jenny Barton to accomplish young forest regeneration in the River Hills Forest Habitat Project.

Burk said the habitat being created there will host a wide swath of animals, from ruffed grouse to bobwhite to, of course, turkeys.

"Hunting isn't about the kill, it's about the entire experience," Burk said. "It's very thrilling. For most of us at that hunt, it's the centerpiece of our lives."

And to maintain that experience for future generations, the land needs to be conserved and new enthusiasts need to be recruited.

"We would love to have folks attend," Burk said. "They can contact me to buy tickets or buy them at the door."

Burk can be reached at [email protected] or 573-676-5994. Doors open at 6 p.m. at 54 Country, 400 Gaylord Drive, and tickets cost $50 for individuals or $65 for a couple.