Fish & Fire - May 1, 2025
River Action's 23rd Annual Fundraiser Dinner returns on May 1st, 2025 to the Waterfront Convention Center in Bettendorf, IA (2021 State St.). Join us as we acknowledge those who act as an eddy by going against the current to accomplish excellence on the Mississippi River in the areas of Art, Design, Education, Revitalization, River Activity, Stewardship, and Special Recognition.
The event begins at 5:00 p.m. with a social hour, silent auction, and cash bar, followed by a delicious plated dinner. The presentation of our Annual Eddy Awards and Scholarships promptly follows. The night concludes with an exciting live auction featuring auctioneer Decker Ploehn.
Event Schedule
- 5:00 p.m. - Social Hour & Silent Auction
- 6:30 p.m. - Plated Dinner & Dessert
- Presentation of 2025 Eddy Awards
- Presentation of Eddy Scholarships
- Live Auction & Funding the Cause
Featured Live Auction Item - Prairie Picnic Packages!
Bid on one or more of 10 picnic packages for groups of 2-10, customized by QC Pop Up Picnics at your chosen prairie. Your choice of boxed lunch selections will be supplied by the Iowa Machine Shed. Perfect for a family event, friends night, or work outing! Prairie Picnics by QC Pop-Up Picnics are sponsored by Group O. Boxed lunches sponsored in part by Heart of America
Live Auction Item - Overnight Stay at Aldo Loepold's Childhood Homes & Property
Experience a Night at the Aldo Leopold Compound: A Historic Retreat in Burlington
Step back in time and spend an unforgettable night at the Aldo Leopold Compound in Burlington, Iowa—where one of America’s greatest conservationists began his journey. This exclusive overnight stay grants you access to the beautifully restored compound, which includes not one but two of Leopold’s childhood homes. Nestled along the Mississippi River bluffs, the property offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the early life of the pioneer of the land ethic.
Enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the very landscapes that shaped Leopold’s lifelong passion for nature. Whether you’re relaxing on the porch, journaling in the study, or simply soaking in the history and charm, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for lovers of conservation, history, and timeless river views. Donated by the Leopold Landscape Alliance.
Includes: one overnight stay for up to 20 guests, access to both homes on the compound, including a guided tour and introduction to the origin of his land ethic.
Live Auction Item - White Rhino Encounter
Encounter one of the largest land mammals in the world up close! Donated by Niabi Zoo.
Live Auction Item - Mayor for the Day
Work shoulder to shoulder with the May of Bettendorf, AI. Donated by Mayor Bob Gallagher
Live Auction Item - Five-night Cabin Stay w/A-List Amenities
Cabin stay in Northern Wisconsin with a paddle of choice at River's Edge Outfitter, use of kayaks and canies, a fully stocked bar, and a dinner at the Bear Trap Inn. Donated by Navarro Canoe Co.
CLICK HERE to learn about our newest initiative: Getting Back to Our Roots.
CLICK HERE to see what we've accomplished in our last 41 years.
2025 Eddy Award Winners
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