2023 Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop (SOLD OUT)

FLY FISHING ON THE ROOT RIVER (M) In this class you will be in small groups paired with a guide. You will be out on the river learning skills from reading the water, casting, safety, and stream etiquette. This class is designed for beginners and/or fly anglers that need a refresher or want to learn more out on the river.

ARCHERY (M) Learn about archery equipment and how to shoot a bow. Then try your hand on the archery range. We will be using Matthews Genesis compound bows, which have an easy draw weight.

LIGHT YOGA & FOREVERWELL SOUND RELAXATION (E) This session will start with relaxing yoga for the first hour. Sound bowl relaxation meditation uses the pure tones of quartz crystal bowls to guide the body into deeper states of calm as a person lays or sits quietly. Sound Bowls are a way to feel and maintain a relaxed state of mind, body and spirit. “A singing bowl relaxation meditation can be a great starting point for those newer to mediation or support those who have a daily practice because the sustained notes serve as anchors for mind chatter,” said Natalie Jo Baker, a ForeverWell coordinator at the YMCA of Rochester. “We are excited to offer to all for free this type of meditation that has proven to help with brain function, memory, and dementia.”

RIFLE SHOOTING (E) The class will start indoors with basic safe gun handling and rifle shooting fundamentals. Then the class will head to the range for hands-on shooting practice. Safety glasses, guns ammo and earplugs provided.

SHED ANTLER HUNTING (E-M) Learn the best areas to hunt for sheds and when to hunt for sheds. Hike to look for sheds.

WILD EDIBLES (E-M) Discover wild edibles during a hike. Whether in your own backyard, neighborhood, or wandering the fields and woods, learning to forage and understand what to do with what you find is not only free but also fun!

FOREVERWELL SOUND RELAXATION (E) Sound bowl relaxation meditation uses the pure tones of quartz crystal bowls to guide the body into deeper states of calm as a person lays or sits quietly. Sound Bowls are a way to feel and maintain a relaxed state of mind, body and spirit. “A singing bowl relaxation meditation can be a great starting point for those newer to mediation or support those who have a daily practice because the sustained notes serve as anchors for mind chatter,” said Natalie Jo Baker, a ForeverWell coordinator at the YMCA of Rochester. “We are excited to offer to all for free this type of meditation that has proven to help with brain function, memory, and dementia.” (This session will last from 1-3pm)

TRAPPING 101 (E) This class will give participants an introduction to trapping of animals including the equipment, strategies, regulations, dispatch options, and more.

INTRO TO FLY FISHING (M) This class will focus on fly-casting and will introduce you to the skills needed to get on the water, from casting to flies, to reading the water, safety and stream etiquette. Class designed for beginners and/or fly anglers that need a refresher or want to learn more.

INTRO TO CANOEING (M-S) Learn the basics of canoe safety and beginning skills, which includes team paddling and power strokes, reading a river, and tips on planning a canoe trip. Go on a scenic canoe paddle on the Root River. This class is for women with little or no experience canoeing.

SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS (E-M) Learn how to grow shiitake mushrooms and how to start your own culture using inoculation logs. Visit Eagle Bluffs Mushroom logs for inspiration. This class was a hit the last time offered!

DIY FOOD PRESERVATION (E) –   This hands-on class will primarily concentrate on the basics of canning.  During class we will be making a Maple Strawberry Smooch and each person will be able to bring a jar home.  Additional food preservation methods will be introduced including dehydration, freezing and the basics of freeze drying food. Learn methods of producing your own food including gardening and raising chickens. Extra $5 fee for this class payable the day of the event.

HIGH ROPES COURSE (S) Try your hand at the treetops high ropes course. This course will exhilarate you and is a great personal challenge course. Bring your camera; you’ll want someone to take your picture so you can show off what you’ve been up to.

FORAGING STROLL (E-M) Come learn about being a “Nature Detective” on an interactive hike. We will have a short discussion about safety and preparation before hitting the trails for whatever we can find… edible or otherwise! Please
dress in layers for the weather. Long pants, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots, and ankle to knee length socks are recommended, as we will likely go off-trail. Cameras and binoculars are welcome as well!

SHOTGUN SHOOTING (E) The class will start with basic safe gun handling and shotgun shooting fundamentals. Then the class will head to the range for hands-on shooting practice. Safety glasses, guns ammo and earplugs will be provided.

BIRDING (E) Learn how to attract birds to your own backyard and discover a few basic steps to increase your identification skills. We’ll cover equipment, resources and spend plenty of time in the field.

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS (E-M) Learn the ins and out to caring for Eagle Bluff’s raptors, reptiles, skunk and more through coaching from our staff. Experience the behind the scenes to animal care. 

ARCHERY (M) Learn about archery equipment and how to shoot a bow. Then try your hand on the archery range. We will be using Matthews Genesis compound bows, which have an easy draw weight.