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The first spring BOW workshop was held this past weekend at Rock Springs 4-H Center near
Junction City. Women from across the state attended the KDWP sessions to learn hands-on
outdoors skills of all kinds. BOW, which stands for “Becoming an Outdoors Woman,” is a
popular fall gathering at Rock Springs. But interest and demand for the fall sessions
always exceeds the limited registration. Coordinator Jamie McCabe tells about the new
addition: “This is the first time we’ve done a BOW
program in the spring. It’s a smaller group. We only have 48 participants, and they’re
all first timers, which is wonderful. The response has been really good. We’ve got
some of them who are signing up for the fall while they’re here this weekend. They’ve
done an assortment of things – shotguns, float tubing, archery, canoeing, trapping
and tracking – it’s something new that they’re all trying. So they’re all doing
something that they’ve never done before, which is great, and they’re bringing friends
back next time.” Volunteer expert instructors are on hand to
provide information about all kinds of outdoors activities, ranging from cooking wild game,
to outdoors safety and first-aid, to using native plants to dye fabric and craft projects,
to bird watching. Virtually all “common” outdoors pursuits are covered, making it an
ideal way to learn basics. Many enjoyed shooting for the first time, both with archery and
firearms. All special needs, such as ear and eye protectors, waders, and necessary accoutrements
for each session, were provided, making it a whirlwind of opportunities over a three-day
program. Sessions were pre-selected by each participant at registration.
Response was enthusiastic, in spite of cool and cloudy weather. All had fun and came away
with new interests and ambitions for enjoying the Kansas outdoors.
Fall registration is open right now, and half of the 100 participants allowed for that program
are already filled. So hurry and get signed up. Adult women 18 years and older are eligible.
The fall program will be held September 23-25 at Rock Springs, south of Junction City. Cost
varies slightly depending on lodging choice, but is about $180, which includes meals, lodging,
supplies, and use of equipment. Learn more on the BOW page at KDWP’s website or phone
620-672-5911. I’m Mike Blair for Kansas Wildlife and Parks.