Deer banquet Aug. 7

By Jefferson Weaver

Staff Writer

Trophy bucks, kid’s activities, and steak dinners will be on tap at the fourth annual Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA) banquet Aug. 7.

ODMA was founded by Elizabethtown native Joe Hamilton, a nationally known deer biologist. The national organization concentrates on helping hunters and farmers maintain healthy whitetail deer herds.

The Bladen lakes branch of QDMA—which has members in most area counties, including Columbus—holds the fundraiser each year to promote good management practices, raise awareness of deer conservation issues, and encourage more hunters to adopt QDMA techniques.

QDMA member Steve Guyton said the group is also very concerned about the loss of hunting heritage among young people. The annual banquet is free for children 13 and under who are accompanied by an adult.

“We have a lot of fun activities for the children,” he said. “This is a very family friendly event and organization.”

This year’s speakers include Hamilton and state QDMA President Judy Gardner.

Among the winners in last year’s trophy contest were two teenaged hunters, both of whom had national-level deer taken locally. In each case, the deer were in areas where proper management techniques are in use, or on adjoining parcels.

Door prizes, a gun raffle, a silent auction and other activities are planned for the evening, Guyton said. Among the prizes are a gift basket from Lu-Mil vineyards and other special gifts.

A number of area outdoors-related groups—including the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, N.C. Trappers Association, and others—are also expected to attend.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Elizabethtown Baptist Church fellowship hall, located at 1800 W. Broad Street.

Single tickets are $50, and couples tickets are $75. Sponsorships are also available.

For more information, email bladenlakesqdma@intrstar.net, or call 874-0602 or 991-5143, or contact any QDMA member.