Outdoor Chattanooga’s Winter Workshop Series returns in 2019 to offer a series of classroom-based, outdoor-education and skill-building workshops that are free and open to the public. No reservations or experience required to attend. Join for one, some or all to learn or improve outdoor skills! Workshops occur Thursdays, 6:30-8:00 p.m., Jan. 10 through Feb. 28, at Outdoor Chattanooga in Coolidge Park, 200 River Street.
2019 Winter Workshop Schedule
Jan.
10 – Leave No Trace
This Leave No Trace Awareness Workshop will cover the Seven Principles with an emphasis on preparation, planning, skills, and techniques that are essential to Leave No Trace. LNT Educator, Riley Kurtts will also discuss what to do when nature calls in nature and how to properly poop in the woods. This workshop is geared towards anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors including scout leaders, camp staff, trip leaders, outdoor professionals, college students, and teachers. Certificate of completion available for those interested.
Jan. 17 – Fishing 101
What's the catch with fishing in Chattanooga? Learn the basics of fishing from a local expert, Capt. Richard Simms, a certified U.S. Coast Guard Captain and owner/guide of Scenic City Fishing Charters. He will cover everything beginning anglers need to know to "get your feet wet", including equipment, required licenses, places to fish from shore, how and what to fish for in different seasons, and fishing courtesy.
Jan. 24 – Map and Compass
We’ve become pretty dependent on smartphones for wayfinding, but what happens if the signal fails or the battery dies while you’re out on the trail? Learn the basics of how to navigate using the “old school” method of map and compass. Maps and compasses are available for use during the class.
Jan. 31 – Bike Maintenance 101
Outdoor Chattanooga's bicycle guru, James Eubank, will demonstrate and allow time for practice on how to prevent and fix a flat tire. Tools will be provided and questions will be encouraged. Hands and clothing might get dirty/greasy. Bring your bike or use one of ours to practice on.
Feb. 7 – Bike Maintenance 202
Outdoor Chattanooga's bicycle guru, James Eubank, will demonstrate and allow time for practice on tuning your rear derailleur. Tools will be provided and questions will be encouraged. Hands and clothing might get dirty/greasy. Bring your bike or use one of ours to practice on.
Feb. 14 – Search and Rescue Methods: Ropes and Wrangling
The search and rescue visuals seen during a news flash when disaster strikes offer just a small glimpse into the Search and Rescue (SAR) team’s coordination and efforts. This workshop highlights the methods and techniques used by our local SAR team to safely locate and extract people in need. We’ll also cover the training requirements teams undergo to perform their duties, as well as the vehicles and equipment they use.
Feb. 21 – Search and Rescue Methods: Dog and Drones
Learn how Search and Rescue (SAR) teams manage large-scale search and rescue missions utilizing infrared drone equipment and canines. The presenters will identify and discuss the difference between urban and wilderness search and rescue operations. If time permits, there will be a dog and drone demonstration.
Feb. 28 – Fishing Secrets - Techniques for Catching the Big One
Learn techniques from local expert, Capt. Richard Simms, a certified U.S. Coast Guard Captain and owner/guide of Scenic City Fishing Charters, on how to catch the big one! During this workshop, he will discuss techniques that intermediate to advanced anglers can use to catch some of the most popular game fish in our area including Crappie, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Blue Catfish, and Bluegill.