OUTDOOR BRIEFS

FREE LEARNING OPPORTUNITY

Introduction to fly-fishing class set

The Nevada Department of Wildlife will have a free introduction to fly-fishing class for men in honor of Father's Day. The class consists of two sessions, with the first to be at 6 p.m. June 26 at the NDOW Las Vegas office, 4747 Vegas Drive. The second session will be June 27 at Floyd Lamb Park, beginning at 9 a.m.

This class will include instruction in knot-tying, terminology and equipment, as well as casting skills. For more information and registration, contact Ivy Santee, (702) 486-5127, Ext. 3503. Registration begins Monday at 8 a.m.

CALLING ALL ANGLERS

Free fly-tying workshop scheduled

Anglers interested in learning the art of fly-tying are invited to attend a free fly-tying workshop at 6:30 p.m. June 23. Sponsored by the Nevada Department of Wildlife, this hands-on, entry-level course will cover the basics of fly-tying.

On the agenda are tying materials, necessary equipment and tying techniques. All necessary equipment and materials will be provided. The class will be at the NDOW Las Vegas office, 4747 Vegas Drive. To register, call (702) 486-5127, Ext. 3503 or 3850.

NO NEED TO ROAM

Staycation a chance to enjoy local outdoors

With the economic troubles of today, everyone's looking for a frugal way to have fun with their families this summer. That could mean cutting out the planned vacation trip to another part of the country, but families can have just as much fun on a "staycation."

On a staycation, people choose to stay at home rather than vacating it. By staying around on their time off, they have time to enjoy and learn more about the discovery opportunities in their own backyard, neighborhood or just outside of town.

"Families can take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the natural resources that can be found close by," said Margie Klein, wildlife educator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife. "Families and friends can go for hikes right here in town or at many natural areas just outside of Las Vegas. Who knows what wildlife they might enjoy along the way?"

The word staycation is central to Children and Nature Network's "Nature Rocks" campaign, which is designed to get families outdoors. When families go on a staycation, they can avoid airports, long car trips and hotel costs. Staying at home with the family and doing activities that connect with nature also can be a better bonding opportunity for all.

Klein said there are many opportunities for nature recreation in Southern Nevada, pointing out that many neighborhoods now have trails through green space for hiking and biking. Some trails follow washes or connect to urban parks and are lined with trees and other natural elements. Local parks abound in the city, and are a quick break from city life. Other areas, such as Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock National Recreation Area, Mount Charleston and Lake Mead National Recreation Area are also quick getaways where the beauty of nature can be enjoyed.

FESTIVAL HONORS

Biologist receives multiple awards

Larry Neel, a staff biologist who has worked 27 years for the Nevada Department of Wildlife, has been honored with two awards at the recent Spring Wings Bird Festival in Fallon.

Ron Anglin, Spring Wings festival chair, acknowledged Neel with the award from the festival planning committee in recognition of Neel's roles as "festival co-founder, expert tour guide, and tireless advocate for Lahontan Valley wetlands."

In addition, Willie Molini, board chairman of the Great Basin Bird Observatory, and former director of NDOW, presented Neel with a GBBO Founder's Award in appreciation of Neel's efforts as co-founder, secretary, contributor and mentor to GBBO, and his work on behalf of bird conservation in Nevada and the Western United States.