The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will again offer fall wilderness classes to young people who want to learn an outdoor skill. The classes are set up so that participants can enjoy wildlife and gain an understanding of how to become stewards of California's natural resources. Pre-registration is required for both classes and is open now.

"Let's Get Aquatic: Youth Kayaking Clinic" is the first class, set for Saturday, Sept. 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Lake Natoma, in the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. DFG's Youth in the Outdoors program is co-sponsoring the lessons with the Lotus-based Current Adventures kayaking company. DFG recommends the class for kids at least 10 years old and accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents and guardians may also kayak for an additional charge. The day will include a nature talk with emphasis on the role of animals and plants in an aquatic system, and species identification. Participants will also experience wildlife viewing from a kayak, and learn basic kayaking maneuvers, paddle strokes, water safety, and outdoor ethics.

"This unique experience of combining an outdoor skill with wildlife education helps DFG connect important wildlife management messages to youth," said Lesa Johnston, Youth in the Outdoors program coordinator.

There is a $25 class fee for youth and a $30 fee for adults, which includes continental breakfast, equipment use and class materials. Non-kayaking adults are free. Class size is limited to 20 and pre-registration is required. Current Adventures will provide all equipment.

The second class, "Shooting Pumpkins: Youth Archery Clinic" is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the El Dorado Hills Bowmen Archery Club. This event is co-sponsored by the California Bowmen Hunters/ State Archery Association.

The class will include basic junior Olympic-style archery instruction, safety, and an outdoor-ethics presentation. There will be lots of shooting time and in keeping with the harvest spirit, a variety of pumpkin targets will be used. For added fun, there will also be a ghost, balloon-busting station.

A $10 fee includes lunch, equipment, and instruction. Youth must be at least 10 years old and accompanied by a parent or guardian. Class size is limited to 30 and pre-registration is required.

For more information regarding Youth in the Outdoors events, contact Lesa Johnston, Office of Communications, Education and Outreach at (916) 653-7748 or ljohnsto@dfg.ca.gov. Participants may register online for both events at www.dfg.ca.gov/yo.