Conferences

2026 EWA Conservation Extravaganza

TThe 2026 Exotic Wildlife Association Conservation Extravaganza was held August 13–15 at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together a record number of attendees for three memorable days of education, fellowship, conservation, and celebration. From record-setting participation and expanded exhibit space to outstanding educational opportunities and exciting evening events, this year’s Extravaganza reflected the continued growth and enthusiasm of the EWA community. The weekend kicked off Thursday with the Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament, which welcomed a record number of teams to the course. The tremendous turnout demonstrated the generosity and commitment of EWA members and supporters, with tournament efforts and proceeds benefiting scholarships for deserving students. These scholarships represent an important investment in education and in the future generations who will carry the exotic wildlife industry forward. We extend our sincere appreciation to every golfer, sponsor, and supporter who helped make this year’s tournament one to remember. Education remained an important part of the Conservation Extravaganza, with a diverse seminar lineup addressing timely topics affecting exotic wildlife owners, producers, and industry professionals. The NWS Panel featured Dr. Bud Dinges, Admiral Michael Schmoyer, Alain Cain, Macy Ledbetter, and Chris Fritz, while Bobby Deeds presented a seminar focused on nutritional knowledge. Attendees also heard from Dr. Sam Wilkinson, DVM, Chris Fritz, and Jason Wallace during the Safe Animal Capture Panel. Craig Martin, CPA, provided valuable insight during his Exotic Taxation seminar, and Dr. Rob Grahn, Adrian Luff, and Patty Broughton presented an EWA Registry update. The educational program also included the announcement and discussion of an exciting new partnership between EWA and TruHerd, marking another opportunity to provide resources and value to EWA members and the industry. This year also marked an exciting expansion for the Conservation Extravaganza, with an additional ballroom providing increased space for exhibitors and vendors. The expanded exhibit area gave attendees even more opportunities to connect with businesses, discover products and services, and build relationships throughout the weekend. We are incredibly grateful to all of our vendors and exhibitors for their continued support, participation, and commitment to EWA events. Friday evening brought plenty of energy with Carnival Night, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere for attendees and families to enjoy together. The evening also featured the Elite Auction and Grand Auction, both of which reached record-breaking levels and generated tremendous participation. The generosity of donors, buyers, sponsors, and supporters made these auctions a standout part of the weekend and demonstrated once again the remarkable support found throughout the EWA community. Saturday continued the excitement with activities for attendees of all ages. Families enjoyed the petting zoo and children’s games and activities, while the cornhole tournament brought some friendly competition to the weekend. Raffles throughout the event drew enthusiastic participation and added another element of excitement to the festivities. Another highly anticipated highlight was the 2nd Annual Rubber Ducky Race, which surpassed the previous year’s participation and set new records. What has quickly become a favorite Extravaganza tradition brought plenty of fun and friendly competition, and we thank everyone who purchased ducks, participated, and helped make the second year even bigger than the first. Saturday evening featured an incredible Exotic Auction that capped off a remarkable weekend of auctions and fundraising. The enthusiasm in the room and strong participation throughout the auction reflected the generosity and dedication of EWA members and supporters. Combined with the record-breaking Elite and Grand Auctions on Friday, this year’s auction events reached new heights and contributed to an unforgettable Extravaganza. The weekend concluded with a live concert, giving attendees the opportunity to come together one final time for music, fellowship, and celebration. It was a fitting close to three days filled with meaningful education, new connections, family activities, friendly competition, and a shared commitment to conservation and the future of the exotic wildlife industry. With record attendance, expanded vendor space, record-setting participation in several events, and tremendous support throughout the weekend, the 2026 Conservation Extravaganza was truly one for the books. None of it would have been possible without the sponsors, vendors, exhibitors, speakers, donors, volunteers, auction participants, golfers, families, and attendees who continue to support EWA and its mission. To everyone who joined us in San Antonio, thank you for making the 2026 Conservation Extravaganza such a memorable gathering. Your participation, generosity, and enthusiasm continue to strengthen the EWA community and help advance conservation, education, advocacy, and the future of the exotic wildlife industry. We look forward to carrying this momentum into another exciting year and welcoming everyone back at the 2027 Annual Membership Meeting on February 11-13th 2027.