Women Can Learn New Skills at Outdoor Adventure Workshop

Nova Scotia women seeking outdoor adventure can join the Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Workshop again this fall.

The workshop, which runs Sept. 13 to Sept. 15, is aimed at women 18 years and older who want to learn outdoor skills, such as bird hunting, fly fishing, trapping and snaring, rifle shooting, outdoor cooking, canoeing, wilderness survival and nature photography. All classes are introductory and equipment is provided.

The workshop will be held at Mount Traber Bible Camp in Cooks Brook, Halifax Co.

"The Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program is a unique opportunity for women interested in trying new activities, learning new skills, and getting to know other women with similar interests," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau. "The skills gained at this workshop allow participants to enjoy more of the outdoor pursuits available to us in this province."

All BOW instructors are volunteers and many have been with the program since it started in Nova Scotia in 1997. They represent some of the province's most accomplished outdoor leaders.

"As an instructor, one of the many things I enjoy about BOW is having the distinct pleasure of sharing in the women's personal experiences," said Darlene Caldwell, a BOW instructor since 1997. "The environment at BOW is so relaxed and supportive, women are able to accomplish things they never thought they could. For example, many women have never fished, so learning to set up and break down their own fishing rods, put a worm on a hook, and catch and clean their own fish, can be very empowering. There's always a lot of fun, laughter and sharing!"

The BOW program was established in the United States in 1991 to encourage more women to participate in outdoor activities. It now runs in most provinces and states throughout North America.

Registration is open for the September workshop. The fee is $245, which includes HST, meals, accommodation, instruction and equipment. Limited partial scholarships are available.

For more information or to register, contact Becoming an Outdoors-Woman at 902-424-5481, e-mail bowns@gov.ns.ca, or visit the website at www.novascotia.ca/natr/outdoor .