Summer is in full swing for us all, including the next generation of outdoor people. For those youngsters in predetermined “structured” camp or learning environments, the time goes quickly or slowly. Now we have nothing against planning the summer for your kids including sports camps and the like; we have to do that ourselves. Keeping our youth safe, occupied and productive during the summer is something today’s working families have to plan for and somehow fund. Hopefully, many have also arranged for their children to spend time with one of the greatest teachers of all time, the outdoors. 

     July can provide some of the best fishing and water sports time throughout the summer, signaling continuing good times next month in August. Some of our best times have been sharing outdoor recreation with our children. This month, don’t miss this opportunity with your own. Whether it’s boating, fishing, swimming or hiking along an early morning evening trail, there are a host of learning and enjoyment available this month. Getting kids and others who have never had the opportunity to be out on the water for a day of fun, learning and enjoyment is a worthwhile experience, anytime. Remember to keep the outdoor agenda easy, uncomplicated and safe. Whether it’s water borne or along a cool evening timberline trail, a positive experience will last a lifetime. 

     In late May, the Rappahannock Chapter of Ducks Unlimited (DU) held their annual “Greenwing” event. This fun filled afternoon was free and provided the youngsters in attendance a variety of activities and fun-filled information. Held at Woody Yeatman’s Pond in Westmoreland County, the location was perfect for teaching the kids in attendance about waterfowl and their habits. There were several experienced waterfowl callers who fascinated the youngsters with their different calls and explanations of how ducks and geese respond to them. An archery demonstration brought many questions and lots of interest from the group. For many of the youth, they saw for the first time in person, how an experienced bow hunter safely uses a portable tree stand. 

     Hamburgers and hot dogs cooked “pond side” on the grill were accompanied by cold drinks and bottled water on a hotter than seasonal day. There were decoy painting kits, the popular Greenwing “Ducky Dice” game where those in attendance were able to win donated prizes. Face painting was another favorite. The entire afternoon was one which the kids and their parents will remember as a great time in and about the outdoors. Among the endless sources of energy on that warm afternoon were the efforts of “Lexi”, David Lowery’s Black Labrador retriever. She was a hit with all of the kids, especially our own. Many a decoy retriever training float was thrown in the pond that afternoon for Lexi to bring back. 

     Youngsters who join DU’s “Greenwings” get an excellent magazine delivered to their home entitled, “Puddler.” This is an educational magazine filled with fun facts, wildlife, waterfowl photos and even artwork from Greenwing members across the United States. If you want your children to have the opportunity to join in the Greenwings fun, contact Larry Sisson at (804) 445-9400 or David Newsome at (804) 529-6133. They can provide you with information or an application for youngsters to join. The (DU) website also includes access to information about their Greenwing programs for youth, at www.ducks.org 

© 2004 Steve & Chelly Scala All Rights Reserved