Ep 7. A Lesson In Conservation History: New Mexico Turkey

In season 7 episode 7 of MeatEater, titled "A Lesson In Conservation History: New Mexico Turkey," host Steven Rinella travels to the Gila National Forest in New Mexico to hunt wild turkeys. Rinella is joined by his friend, fisheries biologist Shane Mahoney, who teaches him about the history of conservation in North America.

The episode begins with Rinella and Mahoney setting up camp in the Gila National Forest. Rinella expresses his excitement about hunting turkey, which were first introduced to New Mexico in the 1950s. Mahoney explains that hunting and conservation have been intertwined since the beginning of American history. He gives a brief overview of the history of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which emphasizes sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit of both humans and wildlife.

Rinella and Mahoney then set out to hunt turkey. Rinella explains that turkey hunting requires a lot of patience and skill, due to the bird's sharp senses and ability to blend with their surroundings. He also highlights the importance of hunting as a tool for wildlife management, as it helps control animal populations and prevent overgrazing and other environmental damage.

During the hunt, Rinella and Mahoney encounter several obstacles, such as a river they must cross and a steep hill they must climb. Rinella also discusses the importance of hunting ethically and responsibly, emphasizing the need to take only clean shots and respect the animal's life.

Throughout the episode, Mahoney shares various anecdotes and historical facts related to conservation, highlighting the achievements of conservation pioneers such as Aldo Leopold and Theodore Roosevelt. He also discusses the challenges facing modern conservation efforts, such as habitat loss and climate change.

After a long day of hunting, Rinella and Mahoney finally succeed in harvesting a turkey. Rinella explains the process of field dressing the bird, emphasizing the need to waste as little of the animal as possible. He also discusses the importance of consuming wild game, both for its nutritional value and for the appreciation it fosters for the natural world.

Overall, "A Lesson In Conservation History: New Mexico Turkey" is an informative and engaging episode of MeatEater that explores the intertwined history of hunting and conservation in North America. Through Rinella's hunt for turkey and Mahoney's insights on conservation history, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the crucial role that sustainable hunting plays in preserving our natural resources for future generations.