University of the Great Outdoors

Program Mission

The Fargo Park District’s "University of the Great Outdoors" is to introduce and provide area youth and adult, outdoor recreation opportunities that are both fun and educational.

 

 

Hunter's Safety Course
For more information click here or contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department at (701) 328-6300.

OHV (ATV) Youth Safety Class
North Dakota law requires youth between the ages of 12-16, who do not have a valid driver's license or permit, to be certified in order to legally operate OHVs or snowmobiles on land other than their parents. Successfully completing a Youth Safety Course is needed for certification.
Fee: $10.00 (pre-registration is required)
Date: (Thurs) August 7
Times: 5:30-10:00 pm
All registration is through the North Dakota Parks & Recreation Department. Please call (701) 328-5357.

Youth Archery 101
This course will teach the basics of archery and proper shooting techniques. All instructors are certified and have years of experience from both competitive shooting and instructing archery courses. All equipment will be provided for these courses.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Youth Archery 202
This course is for those who have some experience in archery or have already completed an archery course. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment to learn how to properly setup their bow and also proper shooting technique. All equipment will be provided for this course if necessary. All instructors are certified and have years of experience from both competitive shooting and instructing archery courses.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Fly Tying 101
This course is for beginners in fly tying and will focus on the basic skills needed for tying flies. Participants will learn to make a variety of flies. The instructor for this course is Dr. Ron Miller who is one of the region's most accomplished fly fishers. Participants will need to provide thier own vise and tools for this course. All other materials will be provided.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Fly Tying 202
This seminar will teach you how to tie a variety of different flies. Participants should have some tying experience or have already completed a fly tying course. Dr. Ron Miller is one of the region's most accompanied fly fishers. Participants will need to provide their own vise and tools for this course, All other materials will be provided.

 Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Beginner Fly Fishing 101
This course will teach participants everything they need to know to start fly fish. This course is focused on all the basics including endomogy, casting, presenting the fly, knot tying, fish identification and much more. Participants will get hands on experience and learn from one of the regions most accomplished fly fishers. All equipement needed for this course is provided.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

How to Fish the Red River
This course is for fishers of all ages who want to learn the basics for effectively fishing the Red River. Participants will learn about the different presentations used for catching jumbo catfish and walleyes around the Fargo Dams. Participants will also learn what baits to use, what structures to look for, and how to fish back waters effectively.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Kayaking 101
This course is for beginner kayakers and will focus on the boasics of kayaking. The first class will be a lecture on all aspects of kayaking and the next three classes will focus on basic gear and outfitting, paddling skills, wet exits, self and assisted rescues. The last class will be a field trip to a local lake. All equipment, including kayaks will be provided for the class and a lifeguard will be present at all water sessions. Youth participants must be accompanied by an adult to participate in this class.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

TAKING FLIGHT 101 (Age 9-14)
A hands on introduction to the world of flight-from airplanes to spacecraft. Participants will learn about airplanes, how they fly, and the history of flight by experiencing it first hand throught the construction of models and culminating with the construction of flyable model rockets. There will be field trips to the Air Museum and the MSUM Planetarium (schedule permitting). For more information, contact Craig Bjur at 241-1356.

Click here for specific course information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Birding 101
This three session class will teach you philosophy of birding, places to bird in the FM area, tools for bird watching, bird anatomy, field marks, bird songs and much more. The first class will be a lecture followed by field trips.

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Click here to learn more about how to register.

Reloading Shotshells and Cartridges
These seminars will give participants hands on experience on load developement, machine setup, equipment selection, machine setup, enhancing accuracy, safety precautions, and much more. All material and equipment are provided for these seminars. Lunch will also be provided.

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Click here to learn more about how to register.

Intro to Duck & Canada Goose Calling
This seminar will teach the four basic calls for calling ducks. Participants will get hands on experience and instruction from one of the area's best callers.  Class size is limited to 12 participants.

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Click here to learn more about how to register.

How to Use a G.P.S.
This class will focus on teaching participants about G.P.S. units and how useful a tool they can bee for an outdoorsman. Participants will learn about G.P.S. terms, waypoints, routes and basic navigation skills.  G.P.S. units will be provided for this class.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Ice Fishing 101
This class is for both beginners and experienced fishermen who want to learn more about equipment, tackle, shelter, heaters, augers, safety issues and much more.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Cross Country Skiing
These classes will introduce the great sport of cross country skiing and teach the basics of cross country skiing that will allow them to enjoy the fun of this life long sport.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Skate Skiing 101
The goal of this class is to introduce the participants to skate skiing techniques. The faster pace of this style adds a level of excitement to cross country skiing. Participants will need either skate skiing or combi skis and boots which differ from traditional or classic cross country skis. Skiers should also have basic skiing skills and be able to ski diagonal stride with continuous forward movement. Participants must provide thier own equipment for this class.

Click here for specific information and codes.

Click here to learn more about how to register.

Anyone interested in course suggestions or instructing a class, please contact Craig Bjur, Outdoor Recreation Coordinator at 241-1356, cbjur@fargoparks.com or Clay Whittlesey, Director of Recreation for the Fargo Park District at 241-1350.

 

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