ASHLAND NATURE CENTER
Young Waterfowlers (Ages 10-16)
Program #: F09-142-AS Max: 25
Wednesday: December 9, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Members Only: $100
Plus field trips to:
- Ommelanden Hunter Education Training Center to learn shooting skills
- Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge to build blinds and to learn decoy setup
- Delaware Bay to study marsh ecology and waterfowl identification
Waterfowling is an American Tradition that combines hunting with an appreciation of wetlands and their wildlife. In order to instill a strong conservation ethic for all our natural resources, the Delaware Nature Society in partnership with the Red Clay and Brandywine Valley Association, Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife's Hunter Education Program and Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, is providing an exciting opportunity for young Nature Society members.
Participants will study wildlife management, habitat protection, and conservation practices during a comprehensive introduction to the American waterfowling heritage. Field identification of waterfowl, conservation ethics, safety skills, good sportsmanship, and boat and water safety will be covered. Instruction by experts from partnering organizations will provide participants with effective sporting techniques along with a responsible stewardship approach for wildlife and their habitats. An optional hunt at the conclusion of the program, under the supervision of experienced guides, will further reinforce the sound practices taught during the course.
Parent participation is encouraged but not required (no extra fee). Materials provided. Upon the completion of the course, participants will have the opportunity to fulfill the state hunter safety education requirement and receive a certification card(required for ages 15 and up to hunt in Delaware). To participate in this program, a Delaware Nature Society Household membership is required.
Instructors: Jim Jordan, Executive Director, Brandywine Valley and Red Clay Valley Associations; John Campanelli, National Wildlife Federation; experienced hunters Rich Stigale and Jeff Kane; Neil Daugherty, expert decoy carver; Larry Armstrong, hunting guide; Derek Stoner, education program assistant; and guest experts.
Advanced Young Waterfowlers(Ages 10-16)
Program #: F09-143-AS Max: 25
Members Only: $100
Wednesday: December 9 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm
For alumnae of previous Young Waterfowler programs, we offer additional training in blind preparation, decoy setup, duck and goose calling, and firearm safety. Students will have an opportunity to participate in a specially-guided hunt at a private club near Smyrna and enjoy the experience of waterfowling in a tidal marsh.
For third year students and older, Canada Goose hunting at private farms will be offered. Instructors the same as listed above. To participate in this program, a Delaware Nature Society Household Membership is required.
Spring Break--Target Masters Day Camp (Ages 11-16) Max: 13
Program #: W10-106-AS
Friday, April 9, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Member/Non-Member: $45/$65
Leader: Derek Stoner
Test your skills at a variety of target shooting techniques and skills throughout a fun day afield. Learn about the primitive weapons that Native Americans used for survival. After reviewing basic safety lessons, practice with recurve and compound bows as we explore the world of archery. Then we will head to the Ommelanden Shooting Range near New Castle to learn shotgun handling and shooting from professional instructors. Campers will learn how to shoot clay targets and also try the challenging archery course.
Teen Naturalists: Adventure - Nature Study - Volunteering
for the Environment (Ages 13-17)
Program #: W10-107-AS Max: 30
January - August 2010
Members Only: $50 (second half of year)
Leaders: Joe Sebastiani & Dave Pro
Do you enjoy hiking, canoeing, wildlife, nature, or just being outdoors? Meet once per month for outdoor activities, volunteering at DNS events, and to embark on a week-long summer trip. Registration fee does not include cost for occasional overnight trips or the weeklong summer trip. Contact us for a schedule.
