{"id":12,"date":"2026-05-06T15:26:40","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T15:26:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/test-uwsp-multi.pantheonsite.io\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/?page_id=12"},"modified":"2026-05-15T18:14:19","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T18:14:19","slug":"about-bow","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/about-bow\/","title":{"rendered":"About Becoming an Outdoors Woman"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"uwsp-horizontal-cards white-solid blockspacetop blockspacebottom\"><div class=\"site-width\"><section class=\"hcard-container\" aria-label=\"Horizontal Card\"><div class=\"uwsp-horizontal-card-container\" aria-live=\"off\">\n<div class=\"uwsp-horiz-card-block\" id=\"hcard1777322111861675\"><div class=\"uwsp-horiz-card-individual split5050 hcard-imgright\"><div class=\"hcard-infocell\"><h4 class=\"hcard-subtitle\">From One Workshop to a National Movement<\/h4><div class=\"hcard-content\"><p>Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) Wisconsin began in 1991 through the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, when Christine Thomas recognized a need for a different approach to outdoor education. Many women were interested in learning outdoor skills but had limited access to programs that felt welcoming, practical, and supportive. Her goal was to create an environment where women could learn by doing, ask questions freely, and build confidence at their own pace.<br><br>Working through UW Stevens Point, Thomas brought together natural resource professionals, educators, and experienced outdoor instructors to design a hands-on workshop model. The focus was on real-world learning experiences that made outdoor skills more approachable for beginners while still engaging for those with some experience.<\/p><\/div><div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"hcard-mediacell\"><div class=\"hcard-images hcard-oneimg\"><div class=\"hcard-image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/38\/2026\/05\/BOW-Christine-Thomas-.jpg)\">\u00a0<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"hslider-buttoncontainer\"><button class=\"hsliderBack horizontal-sliderbutton\" aria-label=\"previous slide\">\u276e<\/button><div class=\"single-card-nav\"><\/div><button class=\"hsliderForward horizontal-sliderbutton\" aria-label=\"next slide\">\u276f<\/button><\/div><\/section><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"uwsp-horizontal-cards white-solid blockspacetop blockspacebottom\"><div class=\"site-width\"><section class=\"hcard-container\" aria-label=\"Horizontal Card\"><div class=\"uwsp-horizontal-card-container\" aria-live=\"off\">\n<div class=\"uwsp-horiz-card-block\" id=\"hcard17773224264531436\"><div class=\"uwsp-horiz-card-individual split5050 hcard-imgleft\"><div class=\"hcard-infocell\"><h4 class=\"hcard-subtitle\">Growth Beyond Wisconsin <\/h4><div class=\"hcard-content\"><p>The first workshop was held at Treehaven Field Station near Tomahawk and brought together more than 100 women. It quickly reached capacity, showing a strong need for this type of programming and laying the foundation for future growth.<br><br>From that beginning, BOW expanded into a coordinated national and international network of programs across the United States and Canada. Today, Becoming an Outdoors Woman programs are offered through partner organizations in more than 30 states and 5 Canadian provinces, all sharing the same mission of providing hands-on outdoor education for women in supportive learning environments. Wisconsin remains a central part of the program\u2019s history and continued development.<br><br>Today, Wisconsin BOW continues to host seasonal multi-course workshops at Treehaven and Beyond BOW events throughout the year. These programs offer ongoing opportunities for women to learn outdoor skills, spend time in nature, and build confidence in a supportive, inclusive environment.<br><br>At its core, BOW continues to focus on access, learning, and connection, helping women of all backgrounds feel comfortable and capable in the outdoors.<\/p><\/div><div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"hcard-mediacell\"><div class=\"hcard-images hcard-threeimg\"><div class=\"hcard-image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/38\/2026\/05\/BOW-woman-with-backpack.png)\">\u00a0<\/div><div class=\"hcard-image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/38\/2026\/05\/BOW-women-with-tent.png)\">\u00a0<\/div><div class=\"hcard-image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/38\/2026\/05\/BOW-Group-at-Isle-Royale.png)\">\u00a0<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"hslider-buttoncontainer\"><button class=\"hsliderBack horizontal-sliderbutton\" aria-label=\"previous slide\">\u276e<\/button><div class=\"single-card-nav\"><\/div><button class=\"hsliderForward horizontal-sliderbutton\" aria-label=\"next slide\">\u276f<\/button><\/div><\/section><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide has-small-font-size is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BOW Programs across the U.S. and Canada<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Becoming an Outdoors Woman programs are offered throughout the United States and Canada, creating opportunities for women to connect, learn, and experience the outdoors in new ways. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Explore our interactive map to find programs, workshops, and events near you.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1IPfE1n25TnbifohxFBbkh41Blh7fJIg&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"uwsp-horizontal-cards light-gray-solid blockspacetop blockspacebottom\"><div class=\"site-width\"><section class=\"hcard-container\" aria-label=\"Horizontal Card\"><div class=\"uwsp-horizontal-card-container\" aria-live=\"off\">\n<div class=\"uwsp-horiz-card-block\" id=\"hcard17773211556357485\"><div class=\"uwsp-horiz-card-individual split3366 hcard-imgright\"><div class=\"hcard-infocell\"><h3 class=\"hcard-title\">Meet the Coordinator &#8211; Peggy Farrell<\/h3><div class=\"hcard-content\">Peggy Farrell is the director of the Wisconsin Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program, where she has spent nearly 30 years helping thousands of women gain confidence and skills in outdoor recreation. Through hands-on workshops and mentorship, she teaches beginner-level hunting, fishing, shooting sports, and nature skills, while coordinating hundreds of programs across Wisconsin.<br><br>She has mentored new deer and turkey hunters, coached beginning shooters, and played a key role in expanding outdoor education opportunities for women across the state. Farrell is also an accomplished outdoor writer, with work published in Wisconsin Natural Resources, North American Hunter, North American Fisherman, and various newspapers and online outlets.<br><br>Her background includes natural resources, environmental education, journalism, public relations, publishing, and hunter education. She holds a master\u2019s degree in Environmental Education from UW\u2013Stevens Point and teaches the course People, Resources, and the Biosphere. She also coordinates the Central Wisconsin Prairie Chicken Viewing Project and serves as a state R3 coordinator and Hunter Mentor Trainer.<br><br>Peggy lives on a small farm near Amherst, Wisconsin, where she enjoys turkey hunting, fishing, gardening, baking, music, and caring for animals, including border collies, goats, chickens, and geese.<\/div><div>\n<a class=\"uwspbtn uwsp-btn-link-purple\" href=\"mailto:pfarrell@uwsp.edu \" target=\"_blank\">Contact the Coordinator <i class=\"fa-solid fa-circle-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"hcard-mediacell\"><div class=\"hcard-images hcard-oneimg\"><div class=\"hcard-image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/38\/2026\/04\/CNR-BOW-Farrell-Peggy.jpg)\">\u00a0<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"hslider-buttoncontainer\"><button class=\"hsliderBack horizontal-sliderbutton\" aria-label=\"previous slide\">\u276e<\/button><div class=\"single-card-nav\"><\/div><button class=\"hsliderForward horizontal-sliderbutton\" aria-label=\"next slide\">\u276f<\/button><\/div><\/section><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"uwsp-accordion noblockspacetop noblockspacebottom\"><div class=\"accordion\" id=\"\"><div class=\"card-intro\" style=\"text-align:left\"><h2 class=\"h2\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><p>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.<br><br>Our goal is to create a welcoming, supportive, and enjoyable experience for participants of all skill levels \u2014 from complete beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts. If you do not find the information you need, please contact the event coordinator for additional assistance.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"panelcontainer nofirst\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Who can attend Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshops? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants range from complete beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Do I need prior outdoor experience? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>No experience is necessary for most classes. Many participants attend BOW workshops specifically to try a new activity for the first time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Patient instructors provide step-by-step guidance in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">What is the cancellation policy? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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 <a href=\"mailto:bow@uwsp.edu\">bow@uwsp.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">How do class selections work? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Participants typically choose one class during each workshop session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because class sizes may be limited, attendees are often asked to rank their first, second, and third choices during registration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Classes are assigned based on availability and registration timing.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Are meals and lodging included? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Many BOW workshops include lodging and meals as part of the registration fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Specific lodging arrangements and meal details vary by event location and will be listed on each event registration page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dietary accommodations may be available with advance notice.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Can I attend without staying overnight? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Some workshops allow commuters or off-site lodging options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If available, details about commuter pricing or lodging discounts will be included in the event information.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Are scholarships available?<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Limited scholarship opportunities may be available for first-time participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scholarship preference is often given to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Students<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low-income households<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wisconsin residents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Individuals with financial need<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Scholarship requirements and deadlines vary by event. Please email us for more information at <a href=\"mailto:bow@uwsp.edu\">bow@uwsp.edu<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">What should I bring? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Participants should plan for changing outdoor weather conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recommended items often include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Comfortable outdoor clothing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Waterproof layers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hiking or athletic shoes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reusable water bottle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Personal toiletries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notebook or journal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sunscreen and insect repellent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A detailed packing list is typically provided after registration.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Is equipment provided? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Most workshops provide the equipment needed for classes and activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants may bring personal equipment if desired. Any personal firearms, bows, or specialty equipment may need to pass a safety inspection before use.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Do I need a fishing or hunting license?<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Certain classes may require a valid state fishing or hunting license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>License requirements will be clearly noted in the class descriptions for each event.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Are workshops physically demanding? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Activity levels vary by class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most events label classes with physical activity ratings such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Leisurely<br>Moderate<br>Active<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants are encouraged to select classes that match their comfort level and physical abilities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Can dietary restrictions or accessibility needs be accomodated? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>BOW workshops strive to create inclusive and accessible experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants are encouraged to communicate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dietary restrictions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mobility concerns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medical considerations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accessibility needs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>in advance so organizers can make accommodations whenever possible.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">What happens if a class or instructor changes?<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Occasionally, weather, instructor availability, or other unforeseen circumstances may require schedule adjustments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Workshop organizers will make every effort to provide high-quality alternative programming if changes become necessary.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Will photos be taken during the workshop?<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Photographs and videos may be captured during workshop activities for future promotional and educational use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants who prefer not to appear in promotional materials should notify event organizers during registration.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">How will I receive confirmation after registering?<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>After registration and payment are processed, participants generally receive:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Registration confirmation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Event schedule<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Packing recommendations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lodging details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Directions and arrival information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additional workshop updates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Confirmation timelines may vary by event.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Can I make payments in installments? <\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Participants can stay connected by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visiting the official BOW website<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following program social media pages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Joining workshop mailing lists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Checking future event announcements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/details>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>BOW Programs across the U.S. and Canada Becoming an Outdoors Woman programs are offered throughout the United States and Canada, creating opportunities for women to connect, learn, and experience the outdoors in new ways. Explore our interactive map to find programs, workshops, and events near you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-12","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12"}],"version-history":[{"count":58,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":429,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12\/revisions\/429"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/becoming-an-outdoors-woman\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}