Turkey Federation chapter formed in Emporium

An organization that formed in Cameron County earlier this year aims to conserve wildlife and preserve hunting traditions.

Cameron County Longbeards, the 88th Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, consists of about 14 area residents who realized there is a strong interest in protecting wild turkeys in the region.

Chapter President Ray Kratz hopes the group will host mentoring programs and manage food plots. He said the community will benefit, since the organization offers programs geared towards men, women, youth and handicapped.  Hundreds of other NWTF chapters are scattered across the United States, Canada and New Mexico.

Those interested in conserving wild turkey and preserving hunting heritage are encouraged to join the club.

Plans are coming together for a Hunting Heritage Banquet to be held on Aug. 9 at the Emporium VFW, featuring auctions, gun raffles and more. Details will be announced. Anyone wishing to become a sponsor should contact Ryan Magaro at 814-512-2150 or email treasurer@cclongbeards. com.

More information on the club's activities is available at the website cclongbeards. com, or by emailing Kratz at president@cclongbeards.com.