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Attendance and Sales Boom for Deer Industry

Higher fuel and feed prices have worried some 'experts' on the continued growth of the deer industry, but there was only excitement and frenzy at the state's largest-ever deer sale at the 10th Annual Texas Deer Association's Convention & Trade Show. From attendance to deer sales to grand auction, the 2008 TDA convention set new records across the board and was, by all accounts, the most successful convention in the association’s history.

Held at the Westin La Cantera Resort & Hotel in San Antonio, the TDA Convention saw nearly a 30 percent increase in attendance from 2007, and the event's 2008 Superior Genetics Whitetail Deer Auction exceeded expectations by delivering $1.4 million dollars in sales. In addition, the TDA Grand Auction nearly doubled its revenues from the previous year’s totals.

“Just as we thought, we’ve seen all there is to see, we were again surprised by the excitement, energy and growth within the Texas deer industry,” says Karl Kinsel, executive director of the Texas Deer Association. “Last year, the convention's Superior Genetics Whitetail Auction set a new sales record by earning more than $1.2 million. This year, we exceeded that by more $200,000. Our deer auctions continue to be an important part of our ongoing mission to improve the quality and health of Texas deer. We have a remarkable membership that have made TDA the state’s No. 1 resource for whitetail sales.”

The TDA's single, largest event of the year showcased nearly 150 exhibitors from the hunting and deer industries including fundraising auctions that featured whitetail hunts, hunting equipment and other exciting events, such as the 2008 Superior Genetics Whitetail Deer Auction, Casino Night, ladies' fashion show, photo and antler contests, and much more. In addition, the 10th annual event hosted numerous educational seminars which such notable speakers as: Dr. James C. Kroll (aka 'Dr. Deer) of the Institute for White-tailed Deer Management and Research, Stephen F. Austin State University; Dr. Stanley Blend, Dr. Ray Favero of Whitetail Genetics, Dr. Brandt Cassidy, director of laboratory operations for DNA Solutions; and many other renowned industry experts.

“The 2008 August TDA Superior Genetics Auction was the best auction we have ever held,” adds Damon Thorpe, auction manager for the Texas Deer Association. “Great job to everyone who helped and particular congratulations to the TDA staff and volunteers for yet another awesome job at planning, organizing and executing the most professional and successful deer industry event in the state and surely one of the best in the country!”

Since it was established in 1999, the Texas Deer Association has successfully worked to increase quality hunting experiences for all Texas hunters and to advocate wise management practices, promote research and technology regarding improvements to deer herds through the practice of controlled breeding and genetic improvements. As ‘Proud Stewards of Texas Deer,’ the TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds and growing the deer industry.

To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for sponsorship information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com