It's always a good idea to register early for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' popular program for outdoorswomen, and registration is now open.
The 14th annual Becoming an Outdoors-Woman summer program is open to registrants and will be held in Big Bay, in Marquette County in the Upper Peninsula. The dates are June 3 to 5, and the program is open to any woman seeking to improve her outdoor skills.
Some examples of the instruction offered over the weekend are kayaking, canoeing, fishing, mountain biking, fly-tying, archery, geocaching, boating and birding. In all, more than two dozen classes will be held, ranging from basic to advanced topics.
The volunteer instructors try to construct the classes so that each participant learns based on their individual ability, whether that's the basics or something more skilled. And the opportunities afforded by the program are continually popular each year, with women coming from all over the state and even other states to participate. Along with the classes, evening programs like birding hikes and bonfires are planned.
It costs $175 to register, and that includes all food as well as dormitory lodging at the Big Bay Health Camp. Most equipment and supplies are provided, but there is a list of suggested items for participants to bring, such as personal items and suitable clothing. The camp is accessible to all, and also offers pool, sauna, tennis courts, hiking and biking trails, and Lake Superior access.
Participants must be 18 or older, and there are scholarships available to help low-income women with the cost of registration.
Email Sharon Pitz with the Marquette DNR office or see
online registration information for more details.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Sharon Pitz, Michigan Department of Natural Resources
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