One of the biggest goals of the program, said Chapin, isn't just educating who shows up and attends the workshops. It's also making sure those in attendance have the skill to instruct the people around them who might want to learn more, but didn't attend the classes.One of the goals of the program is to not only educate the public about how to better enjoy the outdoor offerings around Chattanooga, but to make seminars that even a seasoned outdoorsman might find interesting or new.
There will be some returning favorites from last year such as instruction on orienteering with an old-fashioned map and compass and how to organize and plan a day hike, and some new classes such as instruction about local wild animals and how to be responsible outdoors in order to help protect the wildlife.
"We're partnering with the Reflection Riding Nature Center to discuss our human and animal connections in nature," said Outdoor Chattanooga's Terri Chapin, the main organizer behind the workshops. "The Nature Center will bring some of their rescued owls and other critters to explain what happened to them."
For example, if the center rescued a possum that had been hit by a car, the class will help shed light on why the possum was on the side of the road in the first place. Many don't realize that even biodegradable waste like orange peels and apple cores can pose danger to local animals if the discarded food draws an animal outside its normal territory, Chapin said.
Another class returning due to popular demand is the aptly named "How to poop in the woods." While the name is tongue in cheek, the workshop is genuine. When nature calls, Chapin explained, it's important to know how to dispose of waste properly with regard to how it may affect future trail users as well as local wildlife.
Other class topics include bike maintenance and whitewater rescue knots and systems for paddlers.
Each class in the series will conclude with handouts and resources for everyone in attendance so they can practice or continue to learn about the topic.
"We're aiming for the beginner as well as the seasoned outdoorsman," said Chapin. "It's always good to revisit skills to keep them sharp. Plus, oftentimes, experienced people enjoy being presented information at a beginner level, because it makes it easy for them to pass that information along to new folks."
For more information and a schedule of the events, visit Outdoor Chattanooga at outdoorchattanooga.com/learn/winter-workshop-series, or call 643-6888.
Email Shane Foley at sfoley@timesfreepress.com