The Department of Natural Resources is offering a variety of opportunities for women to learn more about shooting, archery and hunting this August, through its Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program. These hands-on workshops, designed primarily for those 18 and older, teach women the skills needed to take part in outdoor recreational activities.
"This August, women can learn how to shoot a shotgun, a rifle, a bow or how to hunt for deer," said BOW program coordinator Sue Tabor. "Even if you've never held a gun or a bow before, here's a great chance to get your feet wet in a fun and friendly atmosphere."
August BOW programs are taking place in the metro Detroit, Grand Rapids and Saginaw areas.
For registration forms and more information on the following BOW programs, visit www.michigan.gov/bow, call 517-241-2225 or email dnr-outdoors-woman@michigan.gov.
Introduction to Rifle Shooting
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Saturday, Aug. 6, 3 to 6 p.m.
Hosted by Detroit Sportsmen's Congress
49800 Dequindre Rd., Utica
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This class will consist of the National Rifle Association's FIRST Steps rifle course, presenting firearm safety with video and computer graphics in the classroom. Instructors will discuss firearms actions and component parts, ammunition basics, basic shooting positions and firearms for recreational and sporting uses. A hands-on firearms display will be set up for students to handle and become comfortable with the unloaded firearms, with certified instructors available to answer questions. Live fire will take place at an indoor range, using .22 rimfire firearms and supervised by certified instructors at all times. Ammunition, eye and ear protection will be provided. Participants are asked to not bring their own firearms to this class. Youngsters 10 and older are welcome to attend but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Cost per person is $30 (adults and youth) to cover ammunition and class materials. This class is first-come, first-served and is limited to 24 participants.
Introduction to Shotgun Shooting
Thursday, Aug, 11, 6 to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Saginaw Field and Stream Club
1296 N. Gleaner Rd., Saginaw
For beginners as well as those who would like to sharpen their shotgun skills, this shooting clinic provides one-on-one instruction. With an emphasis on firearm safety, participants will learn and practice shotgun shooting technique, how to determine their dominant eye, proper stance and firearm fit. Attendees may bring their own shotgun to this class or one will be provided for their use. Only 20-gauge ammunition will be provided; those bringing their own 12-gauge shotgun will need to provide their own ammunition. Eye and ear protection will be available. Cost per person is $30. The class is first-come, first-served, and class size is limited.
Introduction to Archery
Saturday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to noon
Hosted by Detroit Sportsmen's Congress
49800 Dequindre Rd., Utica
No skill level is required for this workshop, which will cover safety, dominant eye, proper shooting form/technique, various archery equipment, maintenance and selection. The course will also provide hands-on practice shooting a bow with assistance by instructors. All equipment will be provided. Girls 10 and older are welcome to attend, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Cost for both adults and youngsters is $20 each. This class is first-come, first-served and is limited to 24 participants.
Introduction to Shotgun Shooting
Wednesday, Aug. 17, 5 to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Caledonia Sportsman's Club
10721 Coldwater Road SE, Alto
The Great Lakes Outdoors Foundation will provide one-on-one instruction in this class for beginners as well as those who would like to sharpen their shotgun skills. With an emphasis on firearm safety, participants will learn and practice shotgun shooting technique, how to determine their dominant eye, proper stance and firearm fit. Attendees may bring their own shotgun to this class or one will be provided for their use. Eye and ear protection also will be available. Cost is $30 per person, including ammunition.
Deer Hunting Workshop
Saturday, Aug. 20, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hosted by Detroit Archers Club
5795 Drake Rd., West Bloomfield
Learn the basics necessary to successfully take part in one of Michigan's favorite hunting traditions in this workshop that will cover both archery and firearms deer seasons. Participants will learn about deer hunting regulations, rules, and deer health; deer hunting equipment and scent control; scouting and habitat - where to find deer and places to hunt; safety and hunting etiquette in the field; and caring for and processing game after the harvest. The $20-per-person cost includes lunch and all materials.
Introduction to Archery
Wednesday, Aug. 24, 5 to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Caledonia Sportsman's Club
10721 Coldwater Road SE, Alto
No skill level is required for this workshop, which will cover safety, dominant eye, proper shooting form/technique, various archery equipment, maintenance and selection. The course will also provide hands-on practice at an indoor range, shooting a bow with assistance by instructors. All equipment will be provided. Cost is $15 per person. This class is first-come, first-served and is limited to 10 participants.
Women's Hunter Education Safety Course
Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 27-28
Hosted by Tuscola County Conservation Club
1060 Gun Club Rd., Caro
This is the perfect class for anyone who has been interested in learning how to hunt, or to use a firearm, but has been nervous to get started. Women and girls age 12 and up are welcome to take part. Participants must attend both days to take the hunter education safety standard test and take home their certificate. Beverages and morning snacks will be provided; attendees are asked to bring their own sack lunch both days. Early registration is encouraged, as the class is limited to 25 participants and is first-come, first-served. Cost is $10 per person.
BOW is a noncompetitive program for women, in which each individual is encouraged to learn at her own pace. The emphasis is on the enjoyment, fun and camaraderie of outdoor activities, and sharing in the success of one another.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
