a hands-on BOW workshop offered in partnership with the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council
Exact location will be provided after registering
August 15, 2026 (Rain date August 16)
Waupaca, Wisconsin
Join the Prescribed Fire for Land Management workshop, offered in cooperation with the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council, for a hands-on learning experience focused on using fire as a tool to restore and manage Wisconsin’s fire-adapted ecosystems. Designed for landowners, students, volunteers and land managers, this beginner-friendly workshop combines classroom instruction with field activities to build confidence and practical prescribed fire skills.
Participants will explore fire ecology, safety, equipment, fire behavior, burn planning and crew operations through hands-on equipment stations and live-fire demonstrations. The workshop provides valuable experience for those interested in serving on prescribed burn crews or improving fire management practices on their own lands. This immersive training opportunity is ideal for anyone looking to better understand the role of fire in responsible land stewardship.
Workshop and Registration Details
In cooperation with the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council, this hands-on workshop provides participants with the knowledge and skills needed to safely participate in prescribed burns and understand the role of fire in managing Wisconsin’s fire-adapted ecosystems. Designed for landowners, students, volunteers and land managers, the workshop combines classroom learning with field activities focused on fire ecology, safety, equipment, fire behavior and crew operations.
Workshop Itinerary:
- 8-9 a.m. – Check-in and introductions
- 9-11 a.m. – Equipment stations, including water, radios, hand tools and drip torches
- 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.: Burn briefing and mobilization to burn area
- 12:15-1:30 p.m. – Fire behavior and tool use with live fire
- 1:30-2:30 p.m. – Spot fire exercise
- 2:30-4 p.m. – Ring fire demonstration
- 4-5 p.m. – Questions and wrap-up
Registration: $175 per participant
Capacity: Limited to 24 participants
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning for your Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshop experience? Below are answers to some of the most common questions about registration, lodging, scholarships, meals, class selection, accessibility, cancellation policies, and what to expect during the event.
Our goal is to create a welcoming, supportive, and enjoyable experience for participants of all skill levels — from complete beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts. If you do not find the information you need, please contact the event coordinator for additional assistance.
Who can attend Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshops?
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.
Do I need prior outdoor experience?
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.
What is the cancellation policy?
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.
How do class selections work?
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.
Are meals and lodging included?
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.
Can I attend without staying overnight?
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.
Are scholarships available?
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.
What should I bring?
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.
Is equipment provided?
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.
Do I need a fishing or hunting license?
Certain classes may require a valid state fishing or hunting license.
License requirements will be clearly noted in the class descriptions for each event.
Are workshops physically demanding?
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.
Can dietary restrictions or accessibility needs be accommodated?
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.
What happens if a class or instructor changes?
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.
Will photos be taken during the workshop?
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.
How will I receive confirmation after registering?
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.
Can I make payments in installments?
Participants can stay connected by:
- Visiting the official BOW website
- Following program social media pages
- Joining workshop mailing lists
- Checking future event announcements