The deadline to register for the eighth annual Luther Marsh Youth Outdoors Day is fast approaching.

Although the event at Luther Marsh Conservation Area won't take place until Saturday, September 19, the registration deadline is Saturday, July 25, and students are encouraged to register as soon as possible, as space is limited to 250 students.

Students this year can register easily at www. youthoutdoorsday.com

This one-day event is planned in support of students who have an interest in the outdoors. Activities will include bird identification, banding and calling, birdhouse building, supervised target shooting, and wetland habitat rehabilitation, and fly fishing. There will also be a number of demonstrations such as the use of retriever and pointer hunting dogs, humane trapping techniques, bow hunting, and falconry demonstration.

Luther Marsh is part of the Grand River Conservation Authority, and is a multiple use 5,666 hectare wildlife management area which home to a variety of both wetland and upland wildlife including the acrobatic osprey. Luther March is located 25 km northwest of Orangeville, near Monticello.

"The outdoors has so much to offer youth, from bird watching to hunting, fishing, trapping, or simply going for a walks and enjoying the outdoors. This event was designed to expose kids to the benefits of the great outdoors and help them develop a greater appreciation for the outdoors." said Sharon Grose, Youth Day Publicity Board Member.. "Hopefully the day provided them with some new leisure activities or possible career opportunities.

Youth Outdoors Day was created for youth to introduce them to outdoor activities and gain an appreciation for their natural environment. Event stations are designed to expose youth to a variety of outdoor related topics and activities. Station leaders and volunteers share their expertise and provide coaching throughout the day.

The day's activities include many great activities to choose from :

• Archery: Participants have an opportunity to try shooting at targets with various types of bows.

• Bird Identification and Banding: Retired biology teacher Dave Lamble of Fergus will spend the morning bird banding at Luther Marsh. Discover how to identify various birds and get up-close and personal with waterfowl during banding activity

• Bird House Building:. Build a wood duck box or owl box that provides essential nesting locations for these species. Participants can donate the completed box to be placed for increased nesting opportunities or can take it home with them.

• Camping: What tools are needed for camping? Visit this station and find out some of the tricks used by experienced campers.

• Falconry: Get a chance to get close to these skilled birds and watch a live demonstration.

• Fish ID and Casting: Try your hand at casting and identify local fish species.

• Fly Fishing: Learn the skill of fly tying and casting a fly-rod.

• Nature's Corner: Skilled Craftsmen demonstrate their trades- examine the details of wood carver.

• Pointer and Retriever Dogs: Learn about these useful hunting companions and watch them demonstrate their skills.

• Target Shooting:. Bob Armstrong from Mt. Forest will organize a supervised target range. Test your skill at target shooting.

• Taxidermy: Learn how trapping is done here in Ontario- find out what tools are used-test your skill at identifying pelts.

• Trapping: Learn how trapping is done here in Ontario- find out what tools are used-test your skill at identifying pelts.

• Wetland Discovery: Learn about fish habitat and aquatic species.

• Wild Turkey Display: National Wild Turkey Federation talks about local turkey populations and shows youth how to use a turkey call.

"We want to provide a fun, yet educational day for kids aged 10 to 17 years old, where they can come and safely enjoy a wide variety of hands on hunting, fishing, trapping and outdoor-related activities," said Ms. Grose.