Napping in the hammock, diving into the latest beach read, tubing down a lazy river — all of these are wonderful ways to spend a summer day. If you're interested in something a bit more lively, though, the DNR's Outdoor Skills Academy and Becoming an Outdoors Woman classes and clinics may be just the ticket!
Both the OSA and BOW offer programs covering a variety of topics and a range of experience levels. You'll enjoy expert instruction, a supportive environment and hands-on learning whether you're scouting a site, identifying mushrooms, flushing out birds, sighting a gun or discovering many other outdoor skills, tips and tricks.
See what's coming up in August and book your spot:
- Bear Hunting Clinic, Aug. 2: This immersive clinic in the scenic and rugged landscapes of Cadillac will give you the essential knowledge and skills for a successful, ethical bear hunt.
- Elk Hunting Clinic, Aug. 9: Come to the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center in Cadillac and learn how to hunt Michigan elk on your own or better understand what to expect if hunting with a guide.
- Beyond BOW Hunter Safety, Aug. 15-16: You can register for either or both sessions — hunter education field day (9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15) or bow hunter education field day (10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16). Classes will be held at the Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit.
- Wild Mushroom Clinic with Great Lakes Treats, Aug. 16: Join Michigan instructors Jill and Aaron, wild foods experts from Great Lakes Treats, at Cadillac's Mitchell State Park for an immersive, fast-paced and information-packed wild mushroom clinic.
- Beyond BOW Fabulous Fungi and Foraging, Aug. 26: Head to the Gillette Visitor Center in Muskegon and learn about the uses of foraged finds, take a walk in the woods to see what's in season, and sample some of the provided goods.
- Family Fungi and Foraging, Aug. 29: Join a certified foraging expert at the Gillette Visitor Center to learn all about the basics of safe foraging practices.
Check the calendar for September and October offerings, including a waterfowl hunting clinic, a trapping clinic and a Women on Target instructional shooting clinic.
Questions? For more on the Outdoor Skills Academy, contact Ed Shaw at 231-429-8809. For more on the Becoming an Outdoors Woman program, email DNRBOW@Michigan.gov.