News Summary

Ducks Unlimited of Aiken County held a successful Spring Banquet, attracting around 500 guests. This marked the organization’s first event since 2019, focusing on wildlife conservation efforts. Guests enjoyed various activities, including auctions and raffles. The event signifies renewed community engagement in environmental initiatives and fundraising for natural habitat protection, showing strong support for Ducks Unlimited’s mission.

Aiken County Hosts Successful Spring Banquet for Ducks Unlimited

Aiken, SC – Ducks Unlimited of Aiken County held its first Spring Banquet since 2019 on May 22, 2025, at the Aiken Jaycee Exhibit Building, drawing approximately 500 attendees. The event featured a variety of activities designed to engage and entertain guests, including raffles, silent auctions, and live auctions.

The banquet marked a significant return for the organization after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the leadership of local chapter chairman David Boothe, participants enjoyed a sunny day with temperatures reaching around 95°F. The successful turnout highlighted the community’s renewed enthusiasm for Ducks Unlimited’s mission, which focuses on the conservation, restoration, and management of wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl.

In addition to Boothe, attendees included notable community members such as Jordyn Sellers, Allie Gleaton, Beth and Ron Barnes, Bobby Phibbs, Chris and Adrienne Rector, Michelle and Joey Black, and many others. Family groups and friends joined together to support the cause, emphasizing the bond and shared interests within the community regarding wildlife conservation.

Event Highlights and Activities

The event provided an array of entertainment and fundraising opportunities. Guests participated in several raffles and silent auction items, which included wildlife art, outdoor gear, and various related memorabilia. The live auction featured larger items and experiences, allowing attendees the chance to bid on unique offerings that aligned with the organization’s mission of protecting natural habitats.

The enthusiasm of the participants contributed greatly to the evening’s success. Various community members not only enjoyed the activities but also engaged in lively discussions about conservation efforts and the importance of wetlands in South Carolina. The proceeds from the banquet are expected to aid in ongoing conservation initiatives, continuing the impact of Ducks Unlimited within the state.

Future Events

The next Ducks Unlimited event is set for February 14, 2025, in Charleston, coinciding with the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE). The Charleston chapter, co-chaired by Ryan Moscow and Stephen Hardman, has made significant strides in fundraising, recently contributing to the protection of 6,700 acres of wetlands in South Carolina during the fiscal year 2024.

Background on Ducks Unlimited

Ducks Unlimited is dedicated to conserving North America’s waterfowl habitats. Since its inception, the organization has worked tirelessly to protect wetlands, which play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and maintaining ecological balance. The return of this banquet signifies a renewed commitment among supporters in Aiken County to further these important conservation efforts.

The past Spring Banquet in 2019 was the last major event prior to 2025, underscoring the significance of this year’s gathering. The community’s response to the banquet serves as a hopeful indicator of continued engagement in wildlife preservation and restoration efforts moving forward.

For further information regarding Ducks Unlimited and upcoming events, community members are encouraged to stay informed through local channels and announcements.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Spring Banquet Photos
• Google Search: Ducks Unlimited
• Shellhouse Rivers Funeral Home: Jacob Moseley Obituary
• Wikipedia: Wetlands
• Post and Courier: Partnership with SEWE for Conservation
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Conservation
• Willits News: Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet
• Google News: Waterfowl Conservation

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.