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In 1959, the first National Wild Turkey Symposium was convened at a time when wild turkeys were extirpated from large portions of their historic range. As we gather more than 65 years later, we are preceded by one of the greatest conservation stories in North America. From the trap and transfer of wild turkeys across the continent, to the groundbreaking research into the bird's ecology and, ultimately, the restoration of the species it is thanks to all of the researchers, biologists, wildlife managers, conservation organizations, academics, and state and federal partners that continue the important work of the National Wild Turkey Symposium. From Foundations to Frontiers is a suitable theme as we gather for the 13th National Wild Turkey Symposium. We recognize those who laid the foundation, visionaries like Wayne Bailey, Lovett Williams, Bill Healy, James Earl Kennamer and many others. Their scientific rigor, foresight and passion shaped the early decades of wild turkey research and management. The last decade has brought us sharp clarity: wild turkey numbers have experienced declines in various regions, and the challenges facing the species today are more complex and more dynamic than at any point in history. Wild turkey research should be a constant component of their management. We must study the bird in times of stability and in times of decline. The landscapes wild turkeys inhabit are in constant flux, altered by shifting land use practices, increased urbanization, expanding invasive plant species, dynamic predator communities, among others. The challenge we face is understanding the confluence and interaction of all these factors and using it to guide us as we manage the bird for the future. Right now, there is more wild turkey research happening than at any given point in history, and the amount of data that currently exists on wild turkey ecology is at an unprecedented level. We will continue to work with our partners to implement the research projects using the best tools and technology to rigorously examine and synthesize the data to provide results that translate into practical management applications. The National Wild Turkey Federation has proudly supported every National Wild Turkey Symposium since our founding in 1973. Our commitment to science has been unwavering — from funding our first wild turkey research project in the 1970s, to investing more than $2.1 million into research over the past three years alone, which, combined with match-funding from partners, has resulted in over $22 million going toward wild turkey research projects since 2022. In addition, a recent milestone for our organization — the establishment of the nation's first endowed professorship dedicated solely to wild turkey research at the University of Georgia, reflects our long-term vision. And it's only the beginning. Our goal is to create a national network of wild turkey-centered academic positions that will ensure that the wild turkey remains a priority for future generations of researchers and managers. We are not in this alone. It is through collaboration and innovation that we will continue to make science-driven, adaptive management the backbone of wild turkey conservation. We cherish the wild turkey for the life-changing experiences it has brought countless hunters and outdoor enthusiasts and because it is truly an icon of American conservation. The bird represents what is possible when vision, science and passion converge. From the gobbles echoing through the timber in the early spring to the quiet moments shared sitting in anticipation with loved ones, the wild turkey moves something deep within us. Let's work to ensure it moves future generations the same way. The authors declare no conflicts of interest.