The 13th annual Luther Marsh Youth Outdoors Day will be held Sept. 13.
Students are encouraged to register as soon as possible, as space is limited to 250 students. They can register online at www.youthoutdoorsday.com by Aug. 15.
“Since its inception 13 years ago, nearly 2,800 youngsters have discovered that learning about the outdoors is fun when the lessons are filled with hands-on opportunities at our unique Youth Outdoors Day” noted Sharon Grose, Youth Outdoors Day board member.
“The great outdoors has so much to offer kids, but sometimes they need a little nudge to discover it – whether it is fishing, bird watching, camping or simply hiking and enjoying wildlife.”
Youth Outdoors Day was created for youth to introduce them to outdoor activities and gain an appreciation for their natural environment. Event stations are designed to expose youth to a variety of outdoor related topics and activities.
Station leaders and volunteers share their expertise and provide coaching throughout the day. Activities will include bird feeder building, supervised target shooting, wetland habitat rehabilitation and fly fishing. There will also be a number of demonstrations such as the use of retriever and pointer hunting dogs, bow hunting, and a falconry demonstration.
“This event was designed to expose kids to the benefits of the great outdoors and help them develop a greater appreciation for the outdoors,” said Grose. “Hopefully the day provided them with some new leisure activities or possible career opportunities.
“Kids from the city don’t often get a chance to enjoy the outdoors. We have a number of volunteers who are ready to share their passions …”
The instructors bring their skills and provide the equipment and assorted gear so that young people can see and feel what it’s like to handle a bow and arrow, build a bird feeder, etc.
Many of the kids have never done anything like it before.
“It is thanks to our volunteers who are passionate about their careers and hobbies and come forth to volunteer to share their knowledge that the day is such a huge success,” said Grose.
“Last year we had 36 station leaders and over 70 volunteers assisting with the day helping to set up the tents, prepare the sites, meal preparation and volunteer to assist with the groups of students as they tour the various stations.
“Even though it’s billed as a youth event, parents are encouraged to attend and participate alongside their child, and it is great to see families engaging in the outdoors and discovering a variety of activities they can participate in as a family.”
Added Grose, “As a parent, turned volunteer, I have experienced firsthand the benefit of such a day. I attended the first event with my oldest son. I was amazed at the enthusiasm and passionate volunteers who were ready and willing to share their skills and it really was a great way to engage youth in outdoor activities …
“We’ve seen reptile displays, dog training, and archery – a lot of activities that you would not find anywhere else. My son has taken up hunting and fishing and now is one of the volunteers for the event.”
The day is made possible through the support of many sponsors and donors and participating businesses and organizations.
