WOMEN: TRY PADDLING, ARCHERY AND HORSE ADVENTURES AT KENSINGTON METROPARK

Looking for something different to do outdoors? Women can discover new skills on the water, at the target range and in the fields at the “9th Annual Women Outdoors: Kensington Adventure!” on Saturday, June 28 from 8:30 am – 5 pm at Kensington Metropark Farm Learning Center near Milford/Brighton.

This one-day workshop will teach women the basics of kayaking and archery, plus they will learn how to drive horses and plow a field. The Adventure is a “Beyond Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” (BOW) program sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Heavner Canoe Rental, Moosejaw, Safari Club International and Huron-Clinton Metroparks.

“Kayaking is a great way to explore rivers and lakes not only here at Kensington, but across the state as well,” said Carol Fink, interpreter at Kensington Farm Learning Center. “Once you get started, your paddle will be your gateway to outdoor adventures. In previous sessions, women have also enjoyed the challenge of archery. This year we decided to add a new dimension by taking women back to a time when we were plowing the fields with horses.”

Women will learn basic paddle strokes and safety, as well as paddle a kayak; learn how to use a bow and arrow safely, and have some target practice, plus drive a horse-drawn cart and operate a horse-driven plow in one of the farm fields.

“The Beyond BOW workshops are designed for women who have some outdoors experience, but wish to further their skills,” says Lynn Marla, DNR BOW coordinator. “Driving horses will provide a different twist to the program.”

Women, 16 or older, are eligible to attend this workshop. The $60 fee includes instruction in all sessions, program materials, use of demonstration equipment and lunch. Registration deadline is June 20. Enrollment will be limited to 40 participants.

To receive more information and request a registration form, contact Kensington Metropark at 248-685-1561 or e-mail sherrie.borchardt@metroparks.com.

Many other outdoor programs for women are scheduled this year across Michigan. To learn more about these additional opportunities, contact Lynn Marla at 517-241-2225 or visit the DNR website at www.dnr.state.mi.us

A vehicle entry permit is required to enter any Metropark and is only $20 annually for regular admission, $12 annually for seniors or $4 daily.