It's no secret bobwhite quail numbers across the midwest have declined over the last few decades. Whether it's from changes in land use and farming practices, increases in predators or something else, quail populations just aren't what they used to be.
A local upstart organization is hoping to turn that tide and bring back the bobwhite.
Black River Quail Forever, a Poplar Bluff-based chapter of the national Quail Forever organization, aims to "help landowners reestablish prairie grasses" to improve wildlife habitat, said chapter president John Blaich. "We want to inform and educate people, and act as a central means for support."
Black River Quail Forever will host its inaugural fundraising banquet beginning at 6 p.m. on April 14 at the Westwood Hills Country Club.
"I'm interested in landowners coming to this banquet," said Blaich. "That's what's going to make an impact."
A prime rib dinner will be served during the banquet, which also will have several games, raffles and silent and live auctions.
"We've hand-selected all of our items," said Blaich.
Several guns also will be given away during the event, including over/under shotguns, a pheasant hunt, a Browning new model Sweet 16 A-5 shotgun and more.
A land specialist also will speak on the importance of wildlife habitat and what landowners can do to improve their lands.
All money raised during the banquet, Blaich said, stays local to help the chapter assist landowners with their habitat projects.
"It's getting off to a good start," exclaimed Blaich. "We've been overwhelmed by the support. People have been coming out of the woodwork."
The chapter already has raised about $22,000, Blaich noted.
About 150 people are expected to attend the banquet, Blaich noted, though most tickets already are sold out.
Besides the upcoming banquet, Blaich said, the chapter also plans to host a children's shooting event later in the year and possibly another field day in the fall.
"This chapter is very dedicated to having an active role in the community," Blaich emphasized. "We have a lot of specialists who can help."
To learn more about Black River Quail Forever's work with local landowners, or to check on banquet ticket availability, give Blaich a call at 573-785-0111.