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BOIS D’ARC, MO – On Saturday, Sept. 28, area residents of all ages will be able to find out what’s great about the Ozarks outdoors.
People can get information on a variety of outdoor activities at Great Outdoors Day. This day-long event, sponsored by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bois D’Arc Conservation Area northwest of Springfield. It is the local celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day, a federally designated day which is the fourth Saturday of each September.
The event will include shooting (rifle, trap and skeet) and archery demonstrations at MDC's Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoors Education Center, which is on the Bois D’Arc Conservation Area. Many of these events will offer hands-on opportunities. Fishing programs, including two free public fishing sessions (8:30-10:30 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.) will be at the Bois D’Arc Conservation Area’s urban fishing pond. Anglers who wish to take part in the free fishing sessions need to bring their own fishing equipment and bait. At the shooting range, all firearms will be provided by Dalton Range staff.
There will also be chances to learn more about forestry programs, camping, fly-tying and hiking. Smokey Bear will also be at this year’s event to meet and greet the public. Photo opportunities will be available.
For information about Great Outdoors Day, call the MDC Southwest Regional Office in Springfield at 417-895-6880 or the Andy Dalton Range and Outdoors Education Center at 417-742-4361.
