By Natasha Derrick
Natasha@TheColumbiaStar.com

This photo, taken by Darrell Bradney of Lexington, was a winner in the SCWF's photo contest. Photo contributed by the SCWF Photographer Darrell Bradney

"Hunters and anglers were some of the first conservationists," said Whitney Griffin, manager of design and events for the South Carolina Wildlife Federation (SCWF). "They wanted to take care of the land where they hunted, played, and worked."

In 1931, the S.C. Game and Fish Association was formed to address the issue of gaming violations which were placing South Carolina's natural resources in danger. Harry Hampton, Zen Hayward, Bartow Culp, and Havilah Babcock were the founding members of the organization which is known today as the S.C. Wildlife Federation.

Now, 75 years later, the original association of hunters and fishermen has expanded to accommodate a variety of people, including environmentalists, hikers, and farmers. Through community programs, activities, and lobbying, SCWF has stood by its claim to encourage everyone to take responsibility for the condition of the environment.

A. C. (Zan) Heyward, founding member of the S.C. Game and Fish Association shows off his catch. Photo courtesy of SCWF For example, the Backyard Wildlife Habitat program, initiated by the National Wildlife Federation, has been a widespread success in South Carolina. In order to have a certified Backyard Wildlife Habitat, the backyard must meet requirements for availability of food, water, cover, and nesting areas. "We have more backyard wildlife habitats per capita than in any other state in the U.S.," Griffin said.

The SCWF's membership rolls are a little over 4,300. The organization exists purely through membership dues and contributions, no government funding. In order to bolster their budget, the SCWF started the Wild Summer's Nite auction and Wild Game Feast 26 years ago. This event provides between 15-20% of the organizations' yearly budget.

This year the event has special significance as SCWF celebrates 75 years on August 5 at the S.C. State Fairgrounds. "We anticipate 450-500 people to join us this year," Griffin said. The Wild Game Feast promises to be a dinner to remember. The open bar will be sponsored by Budweiser Beer, an ice cream bar by PET Ice Cream, and produce by Senn Produce. Tronco's Catering will be preparing a spread of venison, gater, quail, pig, duck, and chicken.

There are only 175 benefactor tickets available this year. The tickets are $175 and include admission for two and entry into the drawing for the grand prize, a designer diamond ring worth $7,500. General admission tickets are available for $75.

The silent auction begins at 6 pm where anything from hunting and fishing excursions to framed artwork and jewelry will be up for bidding.

For more information on the SCWF or the Wild Summer's Nite auction and Wild Game Feast, visit www.scwf.org or email whitney@scwf.org or call (803) 256-0670.