Hey, Want to STEP OUTSIDE?

PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakotans have six invitations to STEP OUTSIDE* this summer. STEP OUTSIDE* is a national program of the National Shooting Sports Foundation and is being introduced in South Dakota by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks.

"These STEP OUTSIDE* events will offer hands-on instruction for newcomers in shooting skills, hunting, archery and fishing," said Al Bahe, GFP hunter education program coordinator. "Our approach is to make these family-based activities and events something parents and children can share together."

The first event will be held June 11 in Huron, followed by July events in Rapid City, Beresford and Pierre. Armour will host an event in August, with Spearfish wrapping up the schedule in early September.

Bahe said the STEP OUTSIDE* events being planned wouldn't be possible without local support and partners. "When we introduced this concept to the volunteer instructors in the Hunter Safety And Firearms Education (HuntSAFE) program, several individuals immediately expressed interest in hosting an event in their area," he said. "That kind of local enthusiasm and partnership is exactly what we hoped to see to make STEP OUTSIDE* a community event."

Registration at some events is limited, so Bahe encourages participants to call now for registration details and to get signed up. "This will be another step in building on South Dakota's outdoor heritage," he said. "With a good turnout this summer, we may be able to expand to more STEP OUTSIDE* events in new locations next year."

Dates, locations and contact information include:

* Statewide Contact:

Nick Tunge, S.D. Coordinator for STEP OUTSIDE* (605) 280-3782

* June 11, Huron
9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Register at GFP office in Huron
Phone: (605) 353-7145

* July 16, Rapid City
9 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
Register at:
1. Black Hills Archery, 605-394-9663
2. Dakota Angler and Outfitter, (605) 341-2450
3. Jack First Inc., 605-343-8481

* July 23, Beresford
9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Register at Beresford Public Library, (605) 763-2782

* July 30, Pierre
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Register at Lynn's Dakotamart, (605) 224-8871

* August 20, Armour
Registration information to be announced

* Sept. 10, Spearfish
For registration information, call Randy Reed, (605) 642-3629