Outdoor Skills for Women

Women now have an opportunity to enjoy the winter weather while learning outdoor skills and trying new activities.

The winter session of Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) will introduce women to some of the fun and unique activities that come this time of year. Some of the classes offered include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, identifying and cooking wild edibles in winter and preparing for emergencies.

"The winter session of BOW offers women a chance to improve their outdoor skills and meet other women who want to make the outdoors part of their lifestyle," said Susan Hruszowy, co-ordinator for the program in Nova Scotia. "It is also the perfect opportunity for them to try activities that they might have wondered about, in a safe environment and without having to purchase recreational equipment upfront."

The workshop is open to women age 18 or older. It will be held at the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts in St. Anns, Victoria Co., from Friday, Feb. 11 to Sunday, Feb. 13. The cost of the workshop is $199, which includes meals, accommodations, equipment and HST. The deadline for registration is Monday, Jan. 31.

BOW is a national program offered in 44 states and six provinces. It recognizes that barriers sometimes prevent women from participating in outdoor activities. The program is offered in Nova Scotia through the Department of Natural Resources in partnership with the Office of Health Promotion, Agriculture and Fisheries, the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters and Cross Country Ski Nova Scotia.

For more information on the Becoming an Outdoors Woman Program in Nova Scotia or to register for the workshop call 902-424-5832.