Environment and Climate Change
October 5, 2016

Engaging Women in Outdoor Activities

Registration Open for Becoming an Outdoors Woman Fall Workshop

Registration is now open for the Becoming an Outdoors Woman fall workshop. Taking place at the Lion Max Simms Camp, Bishops Falls, the workshop will be offered October 21-23, 2016, with skilled instructors teaching sessions in archery, trapshooting, fly casting, outdoor survival, trail running and wildlife sketching.

"This workshop is specifically designed for women who want to learn new outdoor skills or improve on their existing knowledge. I encourage any woman who has an interest in outdoor pursuits to participate. Getting involved in outdoor activities provides wonderful opportunities to learn and create a better understanding of our natural environment."
- The Honourable Perry Trimper, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

The workshop is ideal for women who have an interest in outdoor activities and want to learn from experienced instructors. All classes are taught at an introductory level. Participants can choose from eight subjects by signing up for scheduled sessions that occur in the morning or afternoon. The program begins with lunch on Friday and ends with lunch on Sunday.

Registration cost is $240 and includes all meals, accommodations and instruction materials. Participants must be 18 years of age to register. To receive a registration package for the workshop, please contact Brenda Pike at brendapike@gov.nl.ca or call 709-229-7811/7888. The program fills up fast so register early. For additional information, please visit: www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/snp/programs/education/outdoor_woman.html. The full list of topics is available in the backgrounder below.

QUICK FACTS

• The Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshop is being offered from October 21-23, at Lion Max Simms Camp.
• The workshop is facilitated by experienced staff and volunteer instructors who will teach sessions in a variety of outdoors activities, including archery, fly casting and outdoor survival.
• More information about the workshop is available at www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/snp/programs/education/outdoor_woman.html

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Media contact:

Emily Timmins Director of Communications Department of Environment and Climate Change 709-729-2575, 693-1292 emilytimmins@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Session Descriptions for Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop

Outdoor Cooking
Learn to prepare tasty gourmet dishes and awesome desserts while having fun in the outdoors. Participants will eat the dishes you create.

Bow/Archery Basics
This class will cover the features of bows and arrows, and how to handle them accurately and safely. There will be a range set up where participants can try out archery equipment.

Shotgun/Trapshooting
This class will include a safety and handling session, overview of shotgun types, ammunition and their use. Participants will learn how to judge distances, basic shooting techniques and shoot at clay targets.

Fly Casting
In this class participants will learn about the equipment and clothing required to enjoy fly fishing. Participants will learn casting techniques, how to join lines and when to use different types of flies.

Basic Camping
Participants will leave knowing how to select a good campsite, put up and take down a tent, build and use an open fire, decide where to put your latrine and how to bear-proof your campsite. The safe use of a camp stove will also be demonstrated.

Trail Running
Trail running is a relaxed sport that is less about running times and more about enjoying the environment and the beautiful nature that surrounds you. During this session, participants will learn how to transition from road running or hiking to trail running. Proper gear, safety, mind and body awareness will be outlined, followed by a relaxing guided run.

Map and Compass/GPS (Global Positioning System)
Participants will learn how to use these devices and satellites. Whether hiking, camping, hunting, fishing or biking, these are excellent tools. All equipment will be provided for participants to plot a course and find their way. Participants are encouraged to bring their own compass or GPS device if they have one.

Rifle Basics
This class will include a safety and handling session and shooting with .22 calibre rifles. Learn the importance of sight picture, breathing and trigger pull in successful rifle shooting.

Outdoor Survival
Participants will learn how to cope in a survival situation using whatever materials are on hand. Put together a basic survival kit, make an emergency shelter, signal for help and prevent hypothermia.

Hiking/Backpacking
Not sure what to pack to go in the woods? This course will answer all your questions about hiking and backpacking. Participants will take a short hike, and experience loading and wearing a backpack. You will learn how to prepare for a trip into the wilderness.

Introduction to Kayaking
This workshop will familiarize participants with kayaks. Participants will be introduced to the skills and knowledge required to safely begin kayaking.

Introduction to Nature Photography
The course is designed to help participants get control of the camera by understanding camera functions. The basic concepts explored will be camera, lenses, depth of field, ISO, light metering and tripods. Learn how camera control, time of day, etc. can be used to take better nature photos. Composition, lighting, weather and other concerns specific to landscape and wildlife photography will be explored. (Participants in this class should indicate on the registration form what type of camera they have).

2016 10 05            11:10 a.m.