The Southern Gateway Chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association will host its 25th annual conservation banquet at the American Legion in Albert Lea on Sept. 12. The group is in need of help to make its event a success. This year, the group is expecting to have approximately 200 attendees at the fundraiser. A donation would help to make this event a huge success, according to a press release. All donors will receive special recognition during the event; however there are special drawings for donors also. Those who choose to give $200 or $250 in merchandise would be a Trophy Buck Donor. These donors are entered into a drawing for a special shotgun or rifle. Those who choose to give $100 or $125 in merchandise would be a Big Buck Donor, and would be entered into a drawing for the MDHA knife.

The groups banquet committee consists of men and women from the area who volunteer their time and energy to support programs such as wildlife conservation, local Forkhorn Youth Education Days, scholarships for area youth to participate in Forkhorn Educational camps, youth mentored hunts, disabled hunters programs, conservation food plots, land acquisitions, Hides for Habitat and the National Archery in Schools program. Additionally Southern Gateway Chapter supports the Hunters Against Hunger Program by donating to  local meat processors.

MDHA is a grassroots 501 C 3 non-profit, tax exempt conservation organization. The purpose of MDHA is to work for the conservation and betterment of tomorrow’s wildlife and hunters today through education, habitat and legislation. MDHA is composed of nearly 15,000 members and over 60 chapters and countless volunteers throughout Minnesota. MDHA staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that future generations get to enjoy Minnesota’s rich hunting and outdoor heritage.

Those who have questions can contact Deanne von Wald, treasurer of Southern Gateway Chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, at 507-213-0823, or can email any questions to southerngatewaymdha@yahoo.com.