The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s lead grouse biologist will discuss the population status and primary issues affecting the ruffed grouse within the state during the Ruffed Grouse Society’s fifth annual Conservation and Sportsmen’s Banquet on Saturday, March 16, at the Genetti Hotel in Williamsport.

Wildlife biologist Reina Tyl, program specialist for ruffed grouse and American woodcock for the Game Commission, will be the featured speaker for the fund-raising banquet, hosted by the Susquehanna River Valley Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS).

Over the past two decades, the ruffed grouse, a popular game bird and Pennsylvania’s state bird, has experienced a significant population decline, attributed primarily to habitat loss and the prevalence of West Nile virus within the state.

West Nile virus is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes that first appeared in Pennsylvania in 2000. It has been found in more than 125 species of birds, and can cause illness and occasionally death in humans.

The banquet will begin with a social hour at 5 p.m. Dinner is set for 6:30 p.m. and will feature talks by Tyl and RGS representatives.

The evening will also offer a variety of live and silent auctions, raffles, drawings and door prizes, highlighted with a selection of fine firearms, artwork and collectibles.

Proceeds from the fund-raising banquet will be used to enhance and create young forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other wildlife on Pennsylvania public land.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact ticket chairman Jeff Fetzer at (570) 885-6112 or by email: jfetz.jf@gmail.com. Banquet registration deadline is Friday, March 1. Additional information can be found on the Ruffed Grouse Society website, RuffedGrouseSociety.org/Events.