It may only be when actually out in the wilderness that a person realizes exactly how much they know about the skills needed to get by “in the wild.”
So for those who aren’t as adept at the roughin’ it lifestyle as others, the Missouri Department of Conservation has just the solution: The 2009 WOW National Outdoor Recreation and Conservation School.
“It’s geared more toward people who don’t know much about the outdoors,” said Sue Holst, information officer of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Division of State Parks.
This two-day program, held Sept. 25-26 in Kansas City, aims to teach its participants the skills necessary for having a little fun while being outside.
Classes at the program include how to fish, build and cook on a campfire, set up a campsite and more.
Holst said although there are many programs such as this one put on throughout the state, ones held in urban areas, such as Kansas City, are aimed toward those who wouldn’t otherwise have a chance to spend some time outdoors.
“We go into those areas and bring the outdoors to them,” Holst said.
This isn’t just a program for adults. The program is open to anyone age nine or older. Anyone up to age 12 must be accompanied by a parent.
Of course, the younger children haven’t been left out. A junior day camp, for families and children five years or older is also available.
“We encourage families to come out,” Holst said.
Participants who sign up for the Kansas City seminar will have the option of camping overnight or not. They will also get to choose which class they want to take on Saturday.
“You don’t have to camp,” Holst said. “You can just show up that morning.”
Most of the classes are inclusive, Holst said, and certain supplies and equipment will be provided.
“After registering, (participants) will receive a catalog that will indicate to them what they need to bring,” Holst said. “If there are specific things they need to bring, the information will be included in the packet.”
For those who can’t make it to the Kansas City camp, or feel they are more than beginners, DNR also offers another school at Roaring River State Park near Cassville in October that aims to teach those who may already know a thing or two about being outdoors.
That program spans three days and will let participants take part in more than one class.
“You will actually get to pick a first, second and third choice,” Holst said.
The programs are a sponsored by DNR, Bass Pro Shops, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation, Wonders of Wildlife, the National Park Service and Missouri State University.
“It’s definitely a joint effort with all the agencies involved,” Holst said.
Contact this reporter at jennifer.hollis@lakemediaonline.com
If you go
WHAT 2009 WOW: National Outdoor Recreation and Conservation Schools
WHEN Swope Park, Kansas City, Sept. 25-26; Roaring River State Park, Oct. 9-11
DEADLINE Registration must be made by Sept. 18. Registration
information and forms are available on the Web at
or can be requested by calling the Department
of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946.
COST Kansas City, $10 per person, $25 per family; Roaring River, $50 per person. Financial assistance is available by contacting DNR.
