July 31 is the deadline for avid hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts interested in sharing their skills and expertise to sign-up to volunteer at Michigan’s annual Upper Peninsula State Fair, which is August 11-17 in Escanaba.
The Michigan DNR is looking for outdoor enthusiasts to share their skills and expertise with a new generation of enthusiasts at Michigan’s only state fair.
According to a news release, volunteers will join DNR staff at Pocket Park, found just past gate No. 1 at the fairgrounds. Volunteers are needed to teach kids how to fish, shoot a pellet gun or take aim with a bow and arrow. All volunteers will receive a free lunch and commemorative T-shirt for their help. Volunteers will need to pass a DNR background check before participating.
“Volunteers are instrumental in providing this fun, outdoor recreation opportunity for thousands of kids and their families each year, and their dedication to this program is greatly appreciated,” said Janet Canode, education specialist with the DNR’s Marketing and Outreach Division. “We hear from our volunteers and other customers how important it is to reach out to youth to instill an appreciation for Michigan’s great outdoors at a young age. I can’t think of a better way to do that than spending a few hours with kids, sharing your knowledge and helping them get started the right way.”
Pocket Park volunteer shifts are available during each day of the fair. To sign up or learn more about volunteering with the DNR at the U.P. State Fair, contact Janet Canode at 517-284-6033 or canodej@michigan.gov.
The U.P State Fairgrounds are located at 2401 12th Ave. North, in Escanaba. The fair is now governed by the Upper Peninsula State Fair Authority with representatives from all 15 U.P. counties and the Hannahville Indian Community.
For more information about the fair, visit www.upstatefair.org.