DNR Offers 'Becoming An Outdoors-Woman' Program
DETROIT (WWJ) - The Department of Natural Resources is offering a variety of opportunities for women to learn new ways to enjoy the outdoors this July, through its Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program.
These hands-on workshops, designed primarily for those 18 and older, teach women the skills needed to take part in outdoor recreational activities.
BOW is a non-competitive program for women, in which each individual is encouraged to learn at her own pace. The emphasis is on the enjoyment, fun and camaraderie of outdoor activities, and sharing in the success of one another.
July BOW programs are taking place in the Detroit, Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo, Flint/Saginaw and Ludington areas.
Introduction to Kayaking
Sunday, July 17, 10 am to 4 pm
Meet at Ramona Park Beach
8600 S. Sprinkle Rd., Portage
Registration deadline - July 14
Cost: $80
The morning portion of this course is designed to be an introduction to the sport of kayaking for beginners or novice paddlers, while the afternoon segment will cover more advanced technique On-the-water segments will cover proper entry into and exit of the kayak, proper paddle grip and introduction to the "total-body kayak stroke." A full set of strokes suitable for beginners will be introduced, with appropriate practice activities and coaching. The day will wrap up with a relaxing paddle around the lake to give the participants a chance to apply their new skills.
Family Cowboy Action Shoot
Saturday, July 23, noon to 4 pm
Detroit Sportsmen's Congress
49800 Dequindre Rd., Utica
Registration deadline - July 14
Cost: $30
The program will begin with a brief history of cowboy action shooting from its inception in 1981, followed by a lesson on safe firearm handling and range safety, and then a demonstration of cowboy action shooting with handguns, rifles and shotguns as used by cowboys 125 years ago. Hands-on shooting, with one-on-one assistance by certified instructors, will follow. Eye and ear protection will be provided. Youngsters 12 and up (limit two per parent) are welcome to attend for free, but must be accompanied by their parent at all times.
Outdoor Photography for Beginners
Monday, July 25, 6 to 9 pm
Green Point Environmental Learning Center
48602 Gabriel Rd., Saginaw
Registration deadline - July 21
Cost: $10
Award-winning outdoor writer/photographer Mike Gnatkowski will offer tips on how to take better outdoor photos, whether you want to capture close-ups of flowers or insects, wildlife or the spectacular sunsets or sunrises that Michigan is famous for. The class will head outdoors for a short hike along the nature trail at the Green Point Nature Center, where each student will take a few images to review and discuss back in the classroom. Participants must provide their own digital camera for this class.
Introduction to Shotgun Shooting
Wednesday, July 27, 6 to 8 pm
Island Lake Shooting Range
13600 East Grand River Rd., Brighton
Registration deadline - July 21
Cost: $40
Featuring one-on-one instruction by certified firearms instructors, this shooting clinic is designed for beginners as well as those who would like to sharpen their shotgun skills. With an emphasis on firearm safety, participants will learn and practice shotgun shooting technique, determining dominant eye, proper stance and firearm fit. Attendees may bring their own shotgun, or one will be provided.
BOW events in August include a salmon fishing weekend, beginning archery classes, a deer hunting workshop and an introduction to handgun shooting. For more information, click here.
