Registration Open for Department of Natural Resources I Can! Programs

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources I Can! programs are back.

Participants of all ages and backgrounds will learn hands-on new outdoor skills from experts and instructors in a state park or recreation area setting.

I Can Camp! teaches how to set up camp, start a campfire, cook over that fire and do fun outdoor activities. All the gear is provided, including a tent and air mattress, cooking tools and other basic outdoor equipment. One-night, two-night, and backpacking sessions are offered.

I Can Paddle! focuses on kayaking or canoeing, including launching, paddling efficiently, and planning a safe outing. The program is for first time paddlers, and equipment is provided. There are two hour canoe or kayak trips, river day trips, sea kayaking and overnight canoe camping programs.

I Can Mountain Bike! takes place at Cuyuna Country State Recreation area near Crosby. The spot has what the DNR calls a “world class mountain bike park” where participants will learn mountain bike riding skills.

I Can Fish! is a hands on program to teach all the basics, from casting to identifying what you reel in.

“We provide all the gear along with friendly and knowledgeable instructors,” said Ann Pierce, director of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource’s Parks and Trails Division. “Not everyone grows up learning outdoor skills, and for some, lack of experience, equipment or skills can be a barrier to trying new outdoor activities. Our goal is to remove that barrier and make it easy for all Minnesotans to connect to the outdoors, feeling prepared and safe.”

Programs begin the first weekend in June and continue through the end of August. Since 2010, more than 100,000 people have participated in the I Can! programs.

For more information about programs, including program dates, times, locations, and minimum age requirements, click here or call 888-646-6367.

Click here to register for the I Can! programs, or call 866-857-2757.

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