Becoming an Outdoors Woman

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshops are designed primarily for women, but they are open to anyone age 18 and older who wants to learn outdoor skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Participants range from complete beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

No experience is necessary for most classes. Many participants attend BOW workshops specifically to try a new activity for the first time.

Patient instructors provide step-by-step guidance in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere.

Cancellation policies may vary by workshop and event location; however, most Wisconsin BOW events include a non-refundable processing fee for all cancellations, regardless of the reason for cancellation. Participants who cancel within two weeks (14 days) of the event start date will be assessed the full program fee and are not eligible for a refund.

If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your registration to another participant rather than canceling. To arrange a participant substitution or discuss your registration, please contact us as soon as possible before the event at bow@uwsp.edu.

Participants typically choose one class during each workshop session.

Because class sizes may be limited, attendees are often asked to rank their first, second, and third choices during registration.

Classes are assigned based on availability and registration timing.

Many BOW workshops include lodging and meals as part of the registration fee.

Specific lodging arrangements and meal details vary by event location and will be listed on each event registration page.

Dietary accommodations may be available with advance notice.

Some workshops allow commuters or off-site lodging options.

If available, details about commuter pricing or lodging discounts will be included in the event information.

Limited scholarship opportunities may be available for first-time participants.

Scholarship preference is often given to:

• Students
• Low-income households
• Wisconsin residents
• Individuals with financial need

Scholarship requirements and deadlines vary by event. Please email us for more information at bow@uwsp.edu.

Participants should plan for changing outdoor weather conditions.

Recommended items often include:

• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• Waterproof layers
• Hiking or athletic shoes
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal toiletries
• Notebook or journal
• Sunscreen and insect repellent

A detailed packing list is typically provided after registration.

Most workshops provide the equipment needed for classes and activities.

Participants may bring personal equipment if desired. Any personal firearms, bows, or specialty equipment may need to pass a safety inspection before use.

Certain classes may require a valid state fishing or hunting license.

License requirements will be clearly noted in the class descriptions for each event.

Activity levels vary by class.

Most events label classes with physical activity ratings such as:

Leisurely
Moderate
Active

Participants are encouraged to select classes that match their comfort level and physical abilities.

BOW workshops strive to create inclusive and accessible experiences.

Participants are encouraged to communicate:

• Dietary restrictions
• Mobility concerns
• Medical considerations
• Accessibility needs

in advance so organizers can make accommodations whenever possible.

Occasionally, weather, instructor availability, or other unforeseen circumstances may require schedule adjustments.

Workshop organizers will make every effort to provide high-quality alternative programming if changes become necessary.

Photographs and videos may be captured during workshop activities for future promotional and educational use.

Participants who prefer not to appear in promotional materials should notify event organizers during registration.

After registration and payment are processed, participants generally receive:

• Registration confirmation
• Event schedule
• Packing recommendations
• Lodging details
• Directions and arrival information
• Additional workshop updates

Confirmation timelines may vary by event.

Participants can stay connected by:

• Visiting the official BOW website
• Following program social media pages
• Joining workshop mailing lists
• Checking future event announcements