WELLINGTON NORTH – The 2019 edition of Youth Outdoors Day (YOD) will be held Sept. 14 at the Luther Marsh.
“The day is set up to help kids discover what there is to do outdoors” said YOD board member Sharon Grose.
“Sometimes students need a little nudge to put their cell phone aside, and check out outdoor activities … or simply hiking and enjoying wildlife – YOD introduces kids to lots of outdoor options.”
Officials say event stations are designed to expose youth to a variety of topics and activities. Station leaders and volunteers share their expertise and provide coaching throughout the day.
Activities include bird feeder building, butterfly banding, supervised target shooting, wetland habitat rehabilitation and fly fishing. There will be a number of demonstrations from retriever and pointer hunting dogs, bow hunting, to falconry demonstration.
“Our volunteers are key to making the day a success; they are passionate about their careers and hobbies and come to share their knowledge with kids,” 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 volunteers to assist with the groups of students as they tour the various stations.
She added organizers are still looking for more volunteers and anyone interested can contact Joel Pegg at 519-826-4921.
“Even though it’s billed as a youth event, parents are encouraged to participate alongside their child, and it is great to see families engaging in the outdoors,” said Grose.
YOD is free but donations are welcome. The day is made possible through the generous support of many sponsors and donors and participating businesses and organizations.
Participation is limited to the first 250 youths registered. All youths must be accompanied by an adult and register in advance at www.youthoutdoorsday.com.
YOD will be held rain or shine on Sept. 14 from 8:30am to 4pm at the Guenther/Liddle Centre at the Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area. Dress appropriately. Lunch will be provided for both youths and parents/guardians.
For more details visit facebook.com/youthoutdoorsdayluthermarsh.
