Ducks Unlimited banquet set for Friday

The 40th annual Hi-Line Ducks Unlimited Banquet is set for Friday at the Duck Inn Olympic Room, 1300 1st St.

Jim Bachini, chairman of the Hi-Line Ducks Unlimited chapter, said the organization was established in 1937 during the Dust Bowl Era, a time when North America’s waterfowl populations had significantly decreased due to the extreme drought.

As of Jan. 1, Ducks Unlimited has more than 700,000 members across the world, with projects ranging from the United States and Canada, to Australia and Mexico.

Bachini said that there are about 40 chapters in Montana.

The proceeds from this event will help Ducks Unlimited conserve wetlands and critical upland habitat vital to North America's waterfowl and the more than 900 other species of wildlife that use the same habitats.

“The money that we send in to the national headquarters, it comes back in forms of projects every year in Montana,” he said. “(For example,) it builds stock dams, it builds canals, headgates to make sure water stays in ponds.”

Bachini added that there will be a prime rib and shrimp dinner, as well as a live auction, a silent auction, various raffles and door prizes at the event.

The doors to the fundraiser open at 5:30 p.m., dinner will begin at 7 p.m. and the auctions will begin at 8 p.m. The raffles will take place throughout the event.

Tickets are $35 for a single ticket and $60 for a couple.

For tickets, call Bachini at 262-3739. Tickets can be purchased at the door as well.