SRS hosts the 20th annual Wheelin’ Sportsmen/SRS Ultimate Turkey Hunt

AIKEN, S.C. — On an early April morning, 15 hunters, accompanied by their hunting escorts, ventured into the woods for the 20th annual Wheelin’ Sportsmen/Savannah River Site (SRS) Ultimate Turkey Hunt, in hopes of successfully harvesting the elusive Eastern wild turkey.

“For 20 years, this event has brought joy to many disabled hunters,” said U.S. Forest Service Savannah River Wildlife Program Manager Tal Mims. “It’s not just about hunting; it’s about creating unforgettable memories and providing access to experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. The dedication and passion of all involved have made this event a cornerstone of our outreach efforts, promoting both conservation and accessibility in the great outdoors.”

The event, sponsored by the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service – Savannah River, the Department of Energy (DOE) the Wounded Warrior Project®, and the Outdoor Dream Foundation, offers disabled hunters from across the country the unique opportunity to hunt turkeys in selected locations spanning 170,000 acres of woodlands at the Savannah River Site.

Retired US Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Raymond Archer was one of 15 hunters selected to participate in this year’s hunt. After serving five deployments overseas in combat warzones, Archer sustained a traumatic brain injury that led him to his involvement in the Wounded Warrior Project.

“As an outdoor enthusiast, this hunt was the highlight of my year,” said Archer. “It was a truly special event that filled my heart, not only because I successfully harvested a turkey but also because I witnessed the joy and happiness of all the children who had the opportunity to hunt as well.”

Employees from various contractors across the Site including Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Savannah River Mission Completion,  United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service – Savannah River and Savannah River National Laboratory were selected to serve as hunting escorts. Their role ensures the hunters have a safe and successful experience.

“I was honored to have the opportunity to hunt alongside US Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Raymond Archer during the SRS Ultimate Turkey Hunt,” said hunt escort and SRNS employee Chas Shiels. “It’s a privilege to give back to someone who has sacrificed so much for this country and to be able to do it at SRS is very special.”

The hunters, guides and volunteers gathered after the hunt for an afternoon lunch on Friday that featured guest speaker National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) Savannah River Field Office (SRFO) Manager Michael Mikolanis.

“As the landowner of SRS, NNSA is proud to be a part of this opportunity that allows these hunters to experience the successful land management practices employed on Savannah River Site,” said Mikolanis. “We hope that each participant left with newfound friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.”

Hunt participants harvested 10 turkeys during the two-day hunt. Before processing, the birds were brought back to the central meeting location where wildlife biologists from the U.S. Forest Service measured and recorded each turkey’s weight, beard length, and spur length. This data collection facilitates future research on wild turkey management.

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, a Fluor and HII partnership company, is responsible for the management and operations of the Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site, located near Aiken, South Carolina.

USDA Forest Service – Savannah River directly supports DOE missions through the innovative management of the SRS natural resources. Active forest management is informed through research and practice, which delivers forest products, enhances wildlife habitat, reduces wildfire risk, and provides necessary access to remote areas. The Forest Service – Savannah River also provides relevant support to both emerging and cleanup missions on SRS.

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