Family-Outdoors

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has partnered with the Marquette County YMCA and Northern Michigan University Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreational Sports to offer a series of adaptive kayaking lessons for veterans with disabilities. The sessions will be held on four consecutive Thursdays starting  March 13 , from  5:30-6:30 p.m.  at the Physical Education and Instruction Facility (PEIF) pool on the NMU campus in Marquette. "We are excited about this partnership, which will allow veterans with disabilities to try out adaptive paddling gear and techniques in a controlled, safe, learning environment regardless of experience or skill level," said Greg Andrews, DNR accessibility coordinator and special projects liaison. The kayaking lessons are offered free of charge but space is limited. Pre-registration is required by calling Matthew Williams, YMCA Director of Aquatics/Competitive Swimming, at  906-227-9622 . Participants may sign up f...

Image via Wikipedia Image via Wikipedia Canoeists and kayakers anxious to hit newly-thawed rivers and lakes across the southern part of the state should consider the potential danger of cold waters, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). With temperatures predicted to be in the 70s for the next several days, many paddlers may be coaxed toward the water. Such weather can prove dangerous, or even deadly, if people don’t consider the consequences of cold water shock and hypothermia that can result from tipping into the water. Even though the air is warm, water temperatures are still in the 40s or lower. “Falling into cold water can cause immediate cold water shock,” according to Tim Smalley, DNR boat and water safety specialist. “That’s when cold water causes you to involuntarily gasp for air. If your head is underwater when that happens, drowning can occur in a few seconds.” The DNR recommends these safety tips for canoeists and kayakers: ·  W...

Image via Wikipedia DNR Offers Kayaking Class for Women June 28 and 30 in Milford The Department of Natural Resources invites women to learn the basics of kayaking on Tuesday, June 28, and Thursday, June 30, in Milford. Kayaking provides fun outdoor exercise and is a great way to get an up-close look at wildlife and take in the scenery. The two-part class is being offered through the department's Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program and will be held on both weeknights from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Proud Lake Recreation Area, Heavener Canoe Livery in Milford. Introduction to Kayaking is comprised of two segments, one on land and one on the water. During the land segment, participants will learn kayaking safety, tips on comfortable clothing and shoes, types of kayaks and paddles, weather awareness and other potential hazards. During the water segment, participants will be introduced to proper entry and exiting a kayak, proper paddle grip, the "total body kayak stroke...