Social Events

What would a conference in New Orleans be without great social events? Here are our plans for a guaranteed good time.

Opening Social (Sunday, July 11)

Take a ride on the authentic New Orleans John James Audubon riverboat as you renew old acquaintances and make new ones. Listen to the tunes of a strolling saxophone player, or find out what the future holds for you with a live tarot card reader. This will certainly be an excellent kick-off to a great conference!(Sponsored by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation)

Auction (Tuesday, July 13)

A good time does not just go to the highest bidder! Join us as we raise money for ACI in the wonderful surroundings of the Aquarium of the Americas.

Awards Banquet (Thursday, July 15)

Toast this year’s awards winners at an elegant banquet hosted at the Double Tree New Orleans Hotel.

Field Trips (Tuesday, July 13)

We will get out of the city on Tuesday to enjoy "Sportsman's Paradise." Field trips will be full-day affairs, most from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. All necessary supplies, including boxed lunches, beverages and bug spray, will be provided. Bring your binoculars and cameras as each trip offers great photo ops and wildlife sightings. On the schedule are:

• Swamp Tour of Bayou Sauvage NWR
  This special area of diverse habitats, including fresh and brackish water marshes, lagoons, canals, cheniers and natural bayous, encompasses approximately 23,000 acres and is the largest urban NWR in the U.S. From a covered boat, get a two-hour tour of gators, birds and other wildlife. Lunch will be provided in the refuge's shaded pavilion.
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park's Barataria Preserve
  (Sponsored by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation)
  This preserve offers loads of hiking trails through several of Louisiana's habitat types. These shady trails offer glimpses of gators, hawks and countless other species. The trails are easy walking with several picturesque overlooks and resting spots. Canoeing may also be available.
• Louisiana Coastal Sightseeing Tour
  (Sponsored by Ducks Unlimited Southern Region Office)
  Take a sightseeing boat ride along Louisiana's coast. Board the Rip Tide, LDWF's 65-foot modified crew boat, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the coastal marshes, Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf waters beyond. Experience the wide array of wildlife and activities this unique and fragile landscape supports. Space is extremely limited, so reserve your seat today!

Nighttime trips will also be available on Monday night. Space is limited, so sign up as soon as possible.

• Alligator Trek at Salvador Wildlife Management Area
  Board the boat and see some real "nightlife!"
• New Orleans Haunted History Tour
  Visit sites of documented hauntings and see French Quarter residences where unbelievable events took place. There is an additional cost of $15/person to be paid at the time of the tour.