Outdoor women’s workshop entering 28th year

Metro Wire Staff

Registration for the annual Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshop is now open.

The 28th annual event, held at Treehaven Field Station, is scheduled for Aug. 24-26.

Participants can choose from 26 different hands-on activities including kayaking, Dutch oven cooking, backpacking, rifle and shotgun basics, cleaning and cooking fish, and more.

Classes are hands-on in a “safe and supportive atmosphere”, according to a news release from UW-Stevens Point. All equipment is provided and no experience is necessary.

“BOW provides a safe learning environment where participants can try new activities, build confidence and get outdoors,” said Director Peggy Farrell. “BOW gives participants the opportunity to learn in the company of other women, providing an atmosphere of camaraderie rather than competition. Research shows adult women prefer this supportive approach that allows them to set personal goals and progress at their own pace.”

Classes are suitable for most adults and ability levels, she added.

The first BOW workshop was held in Wisconsin in 1991 through the creative work of Christine Thomas, dean of the College of Natural Resources at UWSP. Now 38 states and six Canadian provinces offer more than 80 BOW workshops per year.

The $399 per person registration fee includes four classes, two nights lodging, seven meals, instruction, equipment use and entertainment. The workshop is sponsored by the Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources and UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources.

Register soon, as space is limited.

For more information, contact Peggy Farrell, 715-346-4681, or email [email protected]. Visit the BOW website www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/bowWI/Pages/Events.aspx.