Outdoor youth day planned for Luther Marsh

WELLINGTON NORTH

Rain or shine, 250 young people will gather for Youth Outdoors Day at Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area.

Registration is limited to 250 kids. Youth nine to 16  can register online at www.youthoutdoorsday.com.  Register early as space is limited.  The deadline for registration is Aug. 15.

Since its inception 10 years ago, over 2,000 youngsters have discovered that learning about the outdoors is fun when the lessons are hands-on.  The outdoors has a great deal to offer kids and here they have the chance to enjoy fishing, bird watching, camping or simply spotting an acrobatic osprey.

Last year 36 station leaders and over 70 volunteers assisted with the day, helping to set up the tents, prepare the sites, prepare meals and help groups of students as they tour the various stations.

“As a parent turned volunteer, I have experienced first-hand the benefit of such a day,” said Sharon Grose, a member of the board.  “I attended the first event with my oldest son. I was amazed at the enthusiasm and passion of volunteers who were willing to share their skills.  We’ve seen reptile displays, dog training, archery - a lot of activities that you would not find anywhere else.”

Instructors bring their skills and provide the gear so that registrants can see and feel what it’s like to handle a bow and arrow, build a bird house or feeder. Other activities include bird identification, butterfly banding, falconry, fish identification, fly fishing, target shooting, wildflowers, wetland discovery and building a bird feeder to take home.

“We want today’s youth to be exposed to outdoor adventures and activities, to learn what opportunities are out there so they can enjoy the great outdoors.  We plant a seed, and then hopefully the students will become interested and possibly become future environmental stewards,” Grose said.

No charge

 There is no charge for registrants, who must be accompanied by an adult.  Donations are appreciated and a tax receipt can be issued for over $25.  For information, contact Sharon Grose at sharon@huskyfarm.ca.

August 3, 2012