The long-running Ausable Bayfield Conservation Auction is undergoing a major change for 2025, shifting from an in-person dinner to an online auction.
Spokesperson Tim Cumming said the decision comes as ticket sales for the dinner event lagged behind previous years, while sponsorships and donations from the business community remained strong.
"We had lots of businesses donating, and that was amazing, and we really appreciate their donations," Cumming explained. "But we didn't have tickets keeping pace with last year's auction. We didn't have the special raffle donations we've had in other years."
This is not the first time the auction has gone virtual. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was held online in 2021 and 2022 before returning to an in-person format in 2023 and 2024.
"I think this year there is economic uncertainty, and we don't know for sure, but that may have affected how many tickets we sold in 2025," Cumming continued. "So the committee had to take a hard look at how to raise money."
"The community projects that are possible thanks to this auction still need our support – we just need to raise that money in a different way," added Chris Keller, Chair of the 2025 Conservation Auction and a member of the Exeter Lions Club.
The online auction is expected to take place in May, with final dates and details to be announced soon. Cumming encouraged past attendees to continue supporting the fundraiser in this new format.
"We still need to raise money for all these important community projects, whether it be parks, trails, conservation areas, opportunities for youth, outdoor recreation, opportunities for young people and families," Cumming explained.
The Conservation Auction has raised more than $1.39 million since its inception, supporting a range of community projects, including parks, trails, conservation areas, outdoor recreation events, conservation education, and youth job opportunities.
The Exeter Lions Club has been a co-partner of the event, alongside the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation, since 1991. Net proceeds from the auction are shared equally between the two organizations.
Although the format is changing, the popular 50-50 Raffle Draw will continue, with tickets available for $10 and a potential jackpot of up to $5,000 if all tickets are sold.
For those who already purchased dinner tickets, full refunds are available upon returning the charitable gift receipt. However, buyers also have the option to donate the ticket cost and receive a charitable donation receipt for tax purposes.
For more details, to donate auction items, or to participate in the online fundraiser, visit conservationdinner.com or contact the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation at 519-235-2610.