Malta Ducks Unlimited Banquet makes conservation happen

Through word-of-mouth, attractive conservation programs and hard work by ranchers over the last couple of years, Ducks Unlimited and partners have created a complex south of Dodson that includes more than 11,000 acres of protected wetlands and grasslands. At the same time, the protected acres are still in agriculture and the majority are in private ownership.

"DU and our partners are in the business of keeping ranchers in business," Bob Sanders, DU manager of conservation programs for Montana said. "Helping Phillips County landowners find conservation programs that are a fit for them and their families has helped keep grass and water on the landscape. That's good for cattle and wildlife."

Ducks Unlimited and our partners have invested over $2 million in these efforts in 2018 which include assistance with fencing, water and protecting and improving grassland. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks offer a variety programs tailored to fit landowners' specific needs.

Help continue this work at the Milk River DU annual banquet on October 5th. The event will be held at the Marian Hills Golf Course (Tin Cup) 1652 US Hwy 191 in Malta. The event starts at 5 p.m. Tickets available at http://www.ducks.org/Montana or by calling Patience Wiltse at (406) 390-0534. The event will feature exclusive DU merchandise items, including several firearms.