Billings’ Yellowstone River Benefit: Raise a Glass for Conservation

If you’re looking for something fun to do this Friday in Billings, here’s a thought: grab a drink, kick back with some live music, and help out the Yellowstone River while you’re at it. From 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on September 12, a fundraiser will be held at Undammed Distilling where every glass poured helps keep our river healthy.

From Music to Raffles, Something for Everyone

This isn’t just a night of sipping drinks. Local musician Gavin Russel will be performing, and a food truck will be parked outside to keep you fueled. Patagonia and REI even pitched in with raffle prizes, $1,750 worth of outdoor gear. So, between bites, drinks, and conversations, you might just head home with some new adventure supplies.

Every Drink Supports the Yellowstone River

Here’s the part that makes this night really matter: for every drink you order, $1 goes straight to the Yellowstone River Research Center. And this isn’t just a once a year thing. Undammed Distilling gives back to watershed conservation all year, but this Friday, the focus is fully on boosting the center’s work.

READ MORE: Is It Safe to Swim in Billings' Yellowstone River?

Conservation Experts Ready to Talk

You’ll also get the chance to meet the people behind the research. Staff and students from Rocky Mountain College’s Yellowstone River Research Center will be there, ready to talk about just about anything related to conservation. Whether it’s snapping turtles, sage grouse, or the projects students are leading in the community, they’re happy to share what they’ve been up to.

Protecting Wildlife and Cleaning the Yellowstone

The Yellowstone River Research Center has been at this for more than a decade. Their research covers everything from ospreys to overall watershed health, and they don’t just stay behind desks. Each year they’ve pulled thousands of pounds of trash from the Yellowstone River, over 60,000 pounds so far. We’re talking tractors, old cars, tires, even tar left behind from a train derailment.

Annual River Cleanup Continues This Saturday

This Saturday marks the 19th annual Yellowstone River cleanup. The crew will be back on the water hauling out whatever doesn’t belong there, making the river a better place for wildlife and for us.

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Your Night Out Can Help the Yellowstone

When you stop by Undammed Distilling this Friday, you’re not just signing up for food, drinks, and music. You’re lending a hand to one of Montana’s most important rivers. It’s a simple way to enjoy yourself while helping ensure the Yellowstone keeps thriving for years to come.