This weekend’s celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Days will be marked by a change in one of the more popular events of the annual festivities.
The Outdoor Youth Challenge will be morphed from a competition among youngsters to more of an "experience." Shawn Head with the DNR says the Challenge had become too narrowly focused and they’re trying to adapt to offer more kids an opportunity to try various outdoor activities in a hands-on environment.
"What we’ve tried to do is be more inclusive, to have kids just involved in these different things with wildlife and fishing," said Head.
The events include everything from shooting a rifle and casting a line to identification of fish and wildlife species and map reading. The contest in the past had become a game that was largely dominated by those youngsters who already had a strong command of woodsmanship. There was a fear among organizers that was intimidating to newcomers. However, for those who want to compete–the challenge is still in place.
"Those kids that want to compete will still have the opportunity," said Head. "Right now we have 19-different events that all kids can participate in without competing. Those who want to compete can do so in five of the events."
Head says the idea of the Outdoor Youth Challenge isn’t necessarily to recognize the best woodsmanship among youngsters. It’s really about getting more people involved in hunting and fishing at an early age.
"In this day of kids who are on cell phones and text messaging each other, they forgot the hands on opportunity to get outside and enjoy the outdoors," said Head. "This encourages the state’s youngsters to learn new skills and gain important knowledge and experience. For some youngsters this may be the only opportunity they have to be exposed to these fun and exciting outdoor activities."
Kids who want to participate can visit four different areas of the park grounds on Saturday and Sunday. The registration will be in a tent behind the administration building at Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park.