Approximately 50 third through eighth grade youngsters attended the Outdoor Youth Expo held at the Stanley Community Center in Chapman Park this past Saturday. Sponsored by the Stanley Sportsman’s Club, the project was coordinated by local residents and club members.
Youngsters in attendance had an opportunity to visit and participate in a number of events. Paired off in to eight groups, youngsters were provided an usher to visit a total of eight stations.
Local Archery in the Schools Program coach Brandy Pecha and husband Tyler discussed archery. Youngsters were given a brief archery lesson and the opportunity to shoot at a target with a bow and arrow.
Local fishing expert Chad Ducommun discussed and demonstrated techniques of creating your own spinner baits. Youngsters were provided the opportunity to create and assemble spinner baits for their own use.
Area DNR Fish Biologist Joe Gerbyshak discussed his position serving as a DNR Fish Biologist. He discussed fish identification and shared a power point presentation displaying comprehensive fish survey techniques using fyke nets and electroshocking to determine size, age and population of fish on Wisconsin lakes and rivers.
Mike Folczyk from Folczyk’s Sugar Bush discussed with the youngsters the process by which maple syrup is made. Everyone enjoyed maple syrup with ice cream at the end of the event.
Local turkey hunter Neal Geist discussed the art of turkey hunting. Geist also brought a number of turkey props for youngsters to observe and enjoy.
Representatives Fred Poss and Joe Kirst from the Eau Claire Watershed Conservancy discussed the importance of keeping our local waters clean for the future. They also sponsored a casting contest and afterwards donated four rod and reels for prize drawings.
Local trapper Cody Overgard discussed the art of trapping and explained how to use various types of traps. Youngsters had the opportunity to view and touch various pelts and mounts on display.
Chippewa County Conservation Warden Clayton Peters demonstrated a UTV Field Emergency Vehicle. Youngsters had an opportunity to visit with Peters about his position and duties as Conservation Warden.
At the end of the event, everyone was served hotdogs, chips and ice cream with maple syrup. All youngsters were given a Tee-shirt and $10 A&W Gift Certificate for their participation. Drawings were also held for numerous prizes including a $100 Walmart Gift Certificate, $25 Kwik Trip Gift Certificates, four rod and reels, and two bicycles. Lucky bike winners were Lewis Lukes and Aaron Johnson.
Local businesses making donations for the event as sponsors were Rural Septic Service, Folczyks Sugar Bush, Chwalas Construction, Stanley Tire and A&E Printing.
