Register Now For 'Becoming an Outdoors Woman' Weekend

[NCangler]

RALEIGH, N.C. (May 3) - With an end of the month deadline for registration and some space still available, organizers say now is the time to enroll in the upcoming Becoming an Outdoors Woman weekend retreat for North Carolina.

Becoming an Outdoors Woman, the hands-on learning experience offered by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, will be held June 8-10 at the Eastern Environmental 4-H Conference Center in Columbia.

"This is an outdoors workshop, but it isn't exactly roughing it," said BB Gillen, instructor and state coordinator for Becoming an Outdoors Woman. "Amenities include climate-controlled living quarters with private showers and flush toilets. The camaraderie is great and the no-pressure learning environment makes it fun."

The cost is $185, which includes lodging, class materials and meals. Instruction includes bird watching, basic camping and backpacking; canoe, kayak and motorboat skills; digital photography; wilderness survival; outdoor cooking; stream ecology; rock climbing; shotgun, muzzleloading and rifle marksmanship; and basic fishing, fly-tying and an introduction to fly-fishing.

Participation is open to women ages 18 and older. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis with fees paid in advance, and a May 31 deadline. For additional information, call (919) 707-0172.