October 8, 1997
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Second BOW - Becoming an Outdoors Women Program Scheduled For October 11-13, 1997

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods announced today that the second Becoming an Outdoors Women Program, (BOW) is scheduled for this weekend, October 11 - 13, 1997, at Kildevil Lodge, Gros Morne National Park.

"I am pleased that my department has been able to offer the second BOW program this year. The first one was offered in April on the Avalon Peninsula and had 82 women in attendance. This coming weekend program will have women attending from all over the province, but the major concentration of people are from the west coast."

The BOW program originated in the United States in 1991, and has expanded to include 40 states and eight canadian provinces. Its goal is to provide opportunity for women to learn skills that enhance and encourage participation in hunting and angling, and the non-consumptive outdoor activities.

The upcoming weekend will involve a total of 139 women, 92 participants, 29 instructors and 10 volunteers. The course offerings will include; shotgun / trap shooting, camping skills, archery and bow hunting, fly fishing, kayaking/canoeing for beginners, cleaning and handling of game, map and compass skills, firearm handling and safety, outdoor survival, taking kids outdoors and spirit nature. The minister added: "We have had a very enthusiastic response to the program, therefore we hope to offer future BOW programs in other parts of the province, in order to allow as many women as possible to take advantage of the program. My department is the primary sponsor of the program, but we have obtained a great deal of support from local sponsors and volunteers. We are delighted that these groups and individuals are so generous in supporting this program."

If you require further information or to arrange an onsite interview:

Contact:

Lucy O'Driscoll Salmonier Nature Park (709) 729-6974 or (709) 685-2714
Anna Buffinga, Communications, (709) 729-3750
Kildevil Lodge, (709) 551-1544