The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), a strong supporter of female participation in outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting, is set to host its 17th annual Women's Outdoor Weekend. The three-day, action-packed event begins at noon on Friday and runs through to Sunday afternoon at the Kinark Outdoor Centre, near Minden. This year's 75 plus participants hail from North Bay, London, Sarnia and many points in between, and for the first time, includes women from the province of Quebec.

As the name implies, Women's Outdoor Weekend is designed to remove the barriers that prevent women from taking up hunting, fishing and other outdoor pursuits. In Canada, women make up approximately 25 percent of resident adult anglers and 15 percent of hunters, and represent a significant opportunity to grow participation in traditional outdoor pursuits. Increasingly, the OFAH hears from women who are interested in making the outdoors a greater part of their personal and family lifestyle and the weekend event supports that goal.

"This weekend brings women together who would like to acquire outdoor skills, learn about conservation and meet like-minded people," says Alesha Caldwell, OFAH Conservation Outreach Programs Coordinator and event organizer. "With one-on-one instruction from experts, participants actually learn how to hold a fishing rod, and handle crossbows, compound bows and firearms, at the same time as they are enjoying great food and the wonderful outdoor environment, which is so much a part of the OFAH-hosted experience."

Activities include canoeing, fishing, archery, range instruction, outdoor survival, wood-carving, fly tying, high ropes course, a night hike and stargazing, as well as the all-new and highly requested, introduction to small engine repair. Also new this year is a demonstration by the Ministry of Natural Resources Canine Unit. Participants will also have the opportunity to win various prizes, including a camping package valued at $1,000, courtesy of Coleman Canada.

With over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 670 member clubs, the OFAH is the province's largest nonprofit, fish and wildlife conservation-based organization, and the VOICE of anglers and hunters. For more information, visit www.ofah.org.