Michigan DNR seeks volunteers for U.P. State Fair experiences

What's happening: One of the biggest annual events in the Upper Peninsula is looking for a helping hand, specifically when it comes to connecting youth with The Great Outdoors. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is requesting volunteers to help with the Pocket Park at the U.P. State Fair, which runs from August 12-18 in Escanaba. Specifically, volunteers will help kids learn various outdoor skills like catch-and-release fishing, learn how to shoot pellet guns or archery, staffing the fire tower and greeting people coming to the Fair.

What is the Pocket Park: Sitting on a one-acre parcel within the fairgrounds, the Pocket Park is a great connection to the outdoors -- all within the city of Escanaba. While it primarily offers learning opportunities for youth, the park features a pond shaped like the Upper Peninsula, shooting ranges and walkways. When the U.P. State Fair isn’t running, the park is available for various events that focus on connecting to outdoor recreation.

The Pocket Park is a nature-focused addition to the overall 144 acres of the fairgrounds, which has multiple show arenas, grandstands, a permanent exhibit “village” featuring gas and steam engines and a dirt track for auto racing. 

What they're saying: "Volunteering at the Pocket Park is a positive and rewarding experience all the way around," said Jo Ann Alexander, one of the DNR volunteer organizers. "Youth enjoy a fun experience, parents get to introduce their kids to potentially new activities, with the help of others, and the volunteers gain the satisfaction of knowing they are helping guide youth in recreation activities that may help shape their future interests."

What's next: All volunteers will receive training for all activities. Shifts in need are from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. on the opening day of the fair and noon-3 p.m. on the closing day, with the remainder of the fair split between two four-hour shifts. To volunteer, contact Jo Ann Alexander at 906-786-2351, Ext. 0 or alexanderj7@michigan.gov or Kristi Dahlstrom at 906-226-1331 or dahlstromk@michigan.gov.