BMO Harris Bank has generously contributed nearly 900 prints by legendary Wisconsin artist Owen Gromme to support wetlands and waterfowl conservation throughout Wisconsin. The prints have an estimated value of $500,000, which makes BMO Harris Bank a DU Gold Legacy Sponsor.

On behalf of BMO Harris Bank, we are very happy to make this gift to Ducks Unlimited and support a fellow organization with deep roots in Wisconsin, says Neil Riegelman, senior vice president and director of commercial banking for BMO Harris Bank and a member of the Milwaukee DU committee. Were here to boldly grow the good in business and life, so were honored to partner with Ducks Unlimited in support of wetlands and wildlife conservation in Wisconsin.

DU will use the prints to support its fundraising efforts in Wisconsin by offering them at events and state raffles. The funds generated will benefit key wetland areas in the Badger State, including the highly popular Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area.

Gromme was a wildlife conservation leader and advocate throughout his life. According to the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame, which inducted him in 1994, Gromme was a native of Fond du Lac and spent his childhood in the marshes and forests of east-central Wisconsin. There, he was surrounded by abundant wildlife. After serving in World War I, Gromme worked as curator of birds and mammals at the Milwaukee Public Museum.

Known as the dean of US wildlife artists, Grommes paintings and prints can be found in the art collections of waterfowl and nature enthusiasts across the country. Because of BMOs generosity, we will be able to continue the story of Owen Gromme, says DU Wisconsin volunteer leader Glenn Goergen. It is a truly special opportunity.