The event welcomes participants to join experts who will be on hand to offer instruction on recreational activities like fishing, birding and geocaching. Take the opportunity to learn more about hiking, biking and paddling and give the demo equipment a free try. There will be more than 18 hands-on, learning activities in all. A complete list is attached.
“We’re rolling out the green carpet for anyone who wants to learn more about the great outdoors,” said Maia Stephens, a DNR recreation programmer. “By working with Michigan’s expert instructors, retailers, outfitters and manufacturers, all Rec 101 programs will have all the gear, guides and good times included.”
Every new adventure needs a starting point, and visitors won’t want to miss “Base Camp” along the shores of Heron Beach for information, maps, refreshments and additional programs.
DNR officials will be conducting a Meet and Greet session from 1 to 3 p.m. at the recreation area. Staff will answer questions and discuss the new direction of the DNR, including its joint efforts with the Secretary of State’s office to improve recreational opportunities with the new Recreation Passport program. DNR Director Rodney Stokes and Secretary of State Ruth Johnson will offer remarks at 2 p.m.
DNR Conservation Officer Mark Papineau will talk about his job and will have a DNR truck, ATV and boat on display. Jon Curtis of the DNR Wildlife Division will offer programs through an interpretive trailer. Merrell, Michigan-based clothing and footwear company and Rec 101 program sponsor, will be onsite to offer proper shoe fitting clinics. General RV will have recreational vehicles on display and an official DNR vacation planner will help with personalized state park vacation ideas. Information on state visitor centers and Explorer Guide programs will be available while Hudsonville Ice Cream provides free treats.
The event concludes with a beachside bonfire and S’mores. Observe Firebuilding 101, a one-time demonstration on how to light a bonfire, presented by members of Hiking Michigan. Storytelling 101 will offer participants a practice session around the bonfire.
Holly Recreation Area, 8100 Grange Hall Rd. in Holly, is located within the northern portion of Oakland County between Pontiac and Flint, and is less than an hour's drive from the Detroit metropolitan area.
Throughout the summer, the DNR wants Michigan citizens and visitors to come out and play by participating in the new Recreation 101 program designed to introduce participants to the fun and fitness available in Michigan’s woods and waters. Offered at state parks and recreation areas across the state, this year-long program aims to provide intro-to and demonstration-style events for novice outdoor enthusiasts
For details on the Rec 101 program or how to become affiliated with the program or become an instructor, call Stephens, (989) 225-8573 or email stephensm3@michigan.gov.
The Rec 101 programs across the state, including the June 4 kick-off at Holly Recreation Area, are free of charge. However a Recreation Passport is required for entry into Holly Recreation Area. The Recreation Passport has replaced motor vehicle permits for entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas and state-administered boating access fee sites. This new way to fund Michigan' outdoor recreation opportunities also helps to preserve state forest campgrounds, trails and historic and cultural sites in state parks, and provides park development grants to local communities.
Michigan residents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($10 for motor vehicles; $5 for motorcycles) by checking "YES" on their license plate renewal forms, or at any state park or recreation area. Non-resident motor vehicles must still display a valid non-resident Recreation Passport ($29 annual; $8 daily) to enter a Michigan state park, recreation area or state-administered boating access fee site; these can be purchased at any state park or recreation area, or through the Michigan e-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore. To learn more about the Recreation Passport, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport or call (517) 241-7275.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
I will be there! will you?
ReplyDeleteAmy, I don't think I'll be able to make it there this year. My youngest son has a baseball tournament that same weekend, and those typically monopolize our entire weekend. Please let us know how it was, though!
ReplyDelete