New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos July 29, released a statement encouraging residents to participate in the state's annual survey of wild turkeys. "Getting outside to hike, watch wildlife, and enjoy nature is a great outlet for our physical and mental health during these challenging times," Seggos said in a press release. "While New Yorkers are out exploring fields and forests close to home this August, reporting turkey encounters is a beneficial way to partner with DEC in our wildlife management work to monitor the population of this popular game bird and we encourage New York’s outdoor adventurers to participate in this annual survey.” The 24th annual DEC Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey will track wild turkey populations and estimate the number of young turkeys per hen statewide. A variety of factors during the breeding and brood-rearing seasons can have a significant impact on wild turkey survival. This index allows DEC to gauge reproductive success and predict fall harvest potential. The survey will be conducted during the month of August. Anyone interested in participating can download a form at the DEC website or contact the DEC regional office at 518-402-8883.