Murrey Honored for More Than 30 Years of Conserving the Wild Turkey

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – For more than 30 years, John “Jack” Murrey of Nashville, has dedicated his life to wild turkeys and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). As the turkey program coordinator, Murrey has been instrumental in restocking more than 10,000 wild turkeys and returning the thunderous gobble of the wild turkey for Tennessee’s outdoor enthusiasts.

To honor Murrey for his dedication, the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) recently awarded him the 2007 Joe Kurz Excellence in Wildlife Management Award during a special ceremony in honor of Murrey.

The Joe Kurz award recognizes wildlife managers who have worked tirelessly for the wild turkey and its habitat. Managers, such as Murrey, are the unsung heroes who do the on-the-ground work for wild turkeys and other wildlife.

“If you hunt wild turkeys in Tennessee, Jack Murrey deserves your gratitude for bringing the wild turkey back,” said Dr. James Earl Kennamer, NWTF Senior Vice President for conservation programs. “Murrey’s dedication to the wild turkey is an example of why Tennessee enjoys great turkey hunting and will continue to do so in the future.”

During his tenure as TWRA turkey program coordinator, Murrey worked to gain the support of TWRA law enforcement and administrative staff to expand turkey populations throughout Tennessee. Murrey was a member of the NWTF’s Technical Committee between 1976 until his retirement in 2003. He continues to play a vital role in the wild turkey program for the Volunteer State as a member of his local NWTF chapter.

TWRA Executive Director, Gary Myers, smiled as he stood by Murrey’s side and stated, “I always appreciated Jack’s presentations to our Commission members. He could always answer the questions and give a positive report on the health and productivity of our turkey flock.”