The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation is inviting residents to support important local initiatives while taking a shot at a cash prize of up to $7,500.
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Conservation Auction 50-50 raffle draw. A total of 1,500 tickets have been printed. If they are all purchased, the winning ticket holder will receive half the proceeds, up to $7,500. Tickets are priced at $10 each and will be available until April 16, 2026.
Funds raised through the raffle will go directly toward community projects that rely on this support to move forward. Janet Clarke, Co-Chair of the Conservation Auction Committee, emphasized the impact of the fundraiser. “Buying a ticket for the 50-50 draw in 2026 is a great way to support needed projects in local communities while also giving the purchaser a chance to win up to $7,500,” she said.
The winning ticket will be drawn at 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Administration Centre. The draw takes place during the 36th annual Conservation Auction, which will once again be held online. The virtual auction opens the morning of April 9 and concludes at 8 p.m. on April 16.
Raffle tickets must be sold within Ontario under Lottery Licence #M835243. They can be purchased from members of the Conservation Auction Committee at the Ausable Bayfield Conservation office located at 71108 Morrison Line east of Exeter, just south of Highway 83, or by calling 519-235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.
Organizers are also continuing to gather auction items, sponsorships, and financial contributions ahead of the online event. While several items have already been donated, the committee is encouraging additional community support to help make the 2026 virtual auction the most successful yet. Donations received before the end of February are especially appreciated.
Once the auction goes live, bidders can access it on the Conservation Dinner website.
The Conservation Auction is a collaborative effort between the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation, the Exeter Lions Club, and community volunteers. Over the past 35 years, the auction and raffle have raised more than $1.42 million for projects across the region. Those funds have supported parks and trails, conservation areas, outdoor recreation opportunities for youth and families, environmental education programs, youth employment and training initiatives, and other conservation efforts that depend on community fundraising to succeed.
