Trout Unlimited banquet March 17

Results of studies on conditions of the Driftwood Branch and a report on the impact of acid precipitation on local waterways will highlight the annual Trout Unlimited banquet, to be held on Sat., March 17, at the Red Fern Convention Center in St. Marys.

The Driftwood Branch of the Sinnemahoning has been rebounding from the overload of sodium hydroxide resulting from a train crash near Gardeau last June. That's just the latest environmental challenge for this important waterway.

John Erway, a biologist with the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission, will discuss the creek's status.

The second guest speaker is Jonathan Dietz, an authority on the impact of acid rain on the environment. Due to prevailing winds, northcentral Pennsylvania receives heavy deposits of acid generated from power plants and other pollutants in the Midwest and falling to the earth hundreds of miles to the east.

Doors to the annual banquet of the Jim Zwald TU Chapter, serving Elk and Cameron counties, will open for a social time at 4:00, with the dinner served at 6:30.

The popular fund-raising auction will follow dinner. Also on tap are a silent auction, games of chance and door prizes. Among the items on hand to be awarded will be rods, reels, vests, prints, photos, and custom items from local artists and craftsmen.

Supporting organizations include Smith's Sports Store, Jim's Sport Shop, Orvis, C & F, Simms, Cabela's, Scientific Anglers, Cortland, Rio and local businesses.

Anyone seeking tickets can call 486-1111 in Emporium or 834-3472 in St. Marys.