National TWS Membership Dues Adjustment

On June 29th, TWS released the following statement,

Greetings Wildlifers,

Our training in wildlife science and management informs us about patterns and trends exhibited by wildlife populations and the varying factors that influence them. Interestingly enough, economics and wildlife science aren’t really that different. Trends lines, whether they be for a wildlife population or an economic indicator can only go three directions—up, down or sideways—and just like wildlife, our economy is influenced by numerous factors that sometimes create the perfect storm and deliver impacts felt by individuals and populations or society broadly.

Such is the case in 2022. We are all feeling impacts from the highest inflation in more than 40 years. Unfortunately, those economic impacts are hitting your professional society, too. TWS’ costs for just about everything needed to serve its members have risen, just like those you are personally experiencing.

TWS’ Bylaws, section 4.03 (B), authorizes Council to increase dues annually as long as the adjustment is limited to the change in the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI-U), rounded to the next highest dollar. A dues increase was discussed by Council at their March 2022 meeting. During a special meeting this month to approve the FY2023 budget, Council approved an increase for our membership dues based on the CPI-U of 8.6% at the end of May 2022.

Effective July 1, 2022, member dues will be as follows:

MEMBERSHIP TYPE       ANNUAL DUES

Regular                            $91

New Professional            $56

Student                           $46

Retired                              $46

Family                               $147

This change implements an $8 increase in regular member dues, and a $4 increase for new professional, student, and retired members. Council recognizes this is yet another increase wildlifers must factor into their budgets and hopes all members appreciate that this modest increase will help TWS cover higher costs of providing professional services, trainings, and quality publications to its members and the wildlife profession broadly.

On behalf of Council and staff at TWS, we deeply appreciate your continued support for your professional society and thank you for what you do! If you have any questions regarding this membership dues adjustment or would like to learn more about your membership benefits, please don’t hesitate to contact us at membership@wildlife.org.