When the leaves begin to change color and the air cools down, why not hit the trail to the next Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshop? This fall’s fun-filled event will be held October 7-9, 2011, at the 4-H Center near Columbiana in Shelby County and is sponsored by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Online registration for the fall workshop will open on July 14 at 6 p.m., at www.outdooralabama.com.

BOW is a three-day biannual workshop designed for women ages 18 years or older and offers hands-on outdoor instruction in more than 50 classes including backyard wildlife, rock climbing, camp cooking, camping, mountain biking, shooting sports, fishing, hunting, canoeing, nature photography and more. Participants can also obtain their Hunter Education Certification and Boating Safety Certification during the workshop.

“For many of the women this is a life changing event,” said Sylvia Payne, BOW program director. “The confidence gained by learning new skills in a safe environment often continues to enrich their lives well after the workshop is over.”

Although not required, participants may bring their own equipment for use in the sessions. Most classes are held outdoors, so clothing suitable for a variety of weather conditions is a must. A flashlight and lawn chair may be useful during the Saturday evening activities as well. Comfortable shoes, rain gear, bug spray, medications, sunglasses and a hat or visor will also come in handy.

Registration is $225, and covers all meals, dormitory lodging, program materials and instruction. Enrollment is limited to 130 applicants, and classes fill up fast. For automatic notification of online registration availability send your name and email address to sylvia.payne@dcnr.alabama.gov. For a complete list of classes, visit www.outdooralabama.com/outdoor-adventures/Events_for_women/bow/. Contact Sylvia Payne by email or call 800-262-3151 for additional information about the workshop.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.

Contact:
Sylvia Payne
800-262-3151