Pheasants Forever, the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources invite those looking for a fun, free way to enjoy the outdoors to attend the fourth annual Great Outdoors Jamboree at Lake Hudson Recreation Area in Lenawee County Sunday, Sept. 11. Taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this outdoor experience for the whole family offers a chance to learn about Michigan’s outdoor recreation opportunities and participate in a variety of activities for new and returning Jamboree visitors alike.
A flag-raising ceremony at 10:30 a.m. presented by American Legion Post 368 will honor veterans and first responders.
Attendees can spend an exhilarating day in the great outdoors learning the skills necessary to hunt, fish or enjoy just about any outdoor recreation pursuit. More than 40 vendors will display, discuss and give hands-on instruction in archery, live birds of prey and wildlife rehabilitation, target shooting, bass fishing, campsite exploration, rope-bridge crossing, and many more nature-based activities.
Smokey Bear also will be on hand for a great photo opportunity with the whole family. There also will be opportunities to learn about habitat and environmental projects and take part in a live chukar hunt.
“Not only will we have a live chukar hunt and lots of outdoor-themed activity stations to explore, but the first 100 veterans and first responders who attend will receive free Pheasants Forever prize packages,” said Jim O’Brien, park manager for Lake Hudson Recreation Area.
Pre-registration is required for the chukar hunt – please contact Julie Griswold at 734-320-9243 (after 4 p.m.) or dixievriverwoods@gmail.com.
“Spending your day with us at the Great Outdoors Youth Jamboree will guarantee you a fun-filled day with your family with plenty of memories that will last forever,” said Bill Fischer, outreach coordinator for Pheasants Forever Michigan. “Now that sounds like a great way to spoil your loved ones this Patriot Day. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”
A vendor will be on site for food purchases, or participants can bring picnic lunches to enjoy by the lake. Make sure to bring a water bottle and a backpack or tote bag for all the goodies you’ll be taking home, and dress for the weather as the event will be held rain or shine. All ages are welcome.
There is no charge to participate in the event, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Lake Hudson Recreation Area. Recreation Passports can be purchased at the park entrance, or check out a free Michigan Activity Pass at your local library.
The Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative aims to create small game hunting opportunities, increase wildlife populations, improve hunter satisfaction and help Michigan’s economy. Landowners can get involved – and can get technical and financial assistance – by forming cooperatives to create and enhance pheasant habitat.
Bringing back quality pheasant hunting to Michigan is one way the DNR plans to create world-class recreational opportunities with funding from hunting and trapping license sales. For more information about the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative and pheasant hunting, visit www.michigan.gov/pheasant.
Contact: Stephanie Yancer, 989-274-6182 or Jim O’Brien, 517-467-7401
