Join us for the Homegrown Habitat Workshop Series, an in-depth program dedicated to the conservation, ecology, and management of Alabama's Wild Turkey! This online and in-person series features six workshops, including virtual sessions and hands-on field days, with presentations from leading experts and conservation professionals.
See the descriptions of the upcoming workshops below and sign up!
Alabama's Wild Turkey Series Featured Speakers and Schedule
The series brings together experts from various organizations, including the Department of Conservation, Auburn University, Alabama Audubon, and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).
Workshop 1
Intro and Overview of Alabama's Wild Turkey (Online)
(Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 6-7 p.m.)
Speakers: Justin Grider and Marianne Gauldin
Topics:
- Department introduction
- Program overview
- General turkey information
Workshop 2
Wild Turkey Bio/Ecology (Online)
(Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 6-7 p.m.)
Speakers: Jared Knight and Isabelle Bracewell
Topics:
- Native species
- Habitats
- Behaviors
- Management
- Private vs. Public Land
Workshop 3
Field Day at Wehle Land Conservation Area/Barbour WMA (4-Hour In-Person Program)
(Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 12-4 p.m.)
Speakers: Landon Johnson, Courtenay Conring, Mike Sievering, Caleb Blake, BrandonHolloway/Justin Grider/Bill Freeman, and others
Topics:
- Predator Management
- Prescribed fire
- Private vs. Public Land: Visuals, Management, Uses, Pros/Cons
- Tour of Turkey Habitats
- Scouting for Turkey Sign
- Turkey Calls and Movement
- Etc.
Workshop 4
Hunting Heritage and the Wild Turkey (Online)
(Tuesday, March 3, 2026, from 6-7 p.m.)
Speakers: Chuck Sykes and Dr. Mark Smith from Auburn
Topics:
- History of North American conservation
- Personal connections to the wild turkey
- Importance of hunting
- Spotlight on NWTF
Workshop 5
Wild Turkey Restoration (Online)
(Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 6-7 p.m.)
Speakers: Andrew Lydeard of Alabama Audubon, Derek Alkire of NWTF
Topics:
- Applying conservation in the backyard
- Restoration aesthetics and considerations
- The importance of preserving the wild turkey
Workshop 6
Field Day at Cahaba Wildlife Management Area (In-Person)
(Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10-2 p.m.)
Activities:
- Shooting sports demos and activities stations: clay shoot, archery, rifle
- Turkey race (sack race for any kids of participants/speakers)
- Review of program material and group discussion/Q&A
- Awards and program closing
- Group picture
Interested in learning more about the Wild Turkey in Alabama and how to manage its habitat?
