Trout Unlimited has been working to preserve rivers and streams for more than 40 years.

“I see TU’s role as being the on-the-ground eyes and ears, and that we’re a force for conserving and protecting the health of our streams and rivers,” explained Buck Skillen, a board member of the local Five Rivers Chapter of TU.

The local chapter has worked toward this goal through: youth and adult education; habitat improvement projects; proactive work toward water quality and conservation; and on-the-ground observation.

This Sat., May 6, the Five Rivers Chapter of TU will look to the Durango community for a little help in continuing those efforts. A Spring Banquet takes place at 5:30 p.m. in the Fort Lewis College Ballroom. The event includes dinner, silent and live auctions, and loads of door prizes donated by area merchants.

The funds raised at the banquet will go toward a fencing project on the East Fork of Hermosa Creek, one of the only dedicated sections of native cutthroat trout habitat in the region. They will also be used for a youth flyfishing clinic, which will include a discussion of conservation ethics.

Tickets for the Spring Banquet are available at Duranglers and Durango Orvis.

– Will Sands