Hunting & Shooting Sports Outreach Program

The primary goal of this program is to provide initial and next steps for novice hunters and shooters such that they will feel comfortable moving forward in the shooting and hunting sports as a result of their experiences and the connections they are able to make in the program. The program is comprised of a variety of mini-workshops, mentored hunts and other events in partnership with shooting ranges, Non-Governmental Organizations and state, local and federal governmental agencies. This program is designed to be as hands-on as possible, giving participants enough knowledge to further pursue their interests once their participation in the program has concluded.

Photo collage of youth and mentors shooting and shooters holding targets​  

  



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Upcoming Events

Join us for a Shooting Sports 101 – Handgun Workshop.

When: Saturday, July 20, 2024
8:30am - 11:30am

Where: GUNTRY Indoor Shooting and Training Facility – Owings Mills

For more details and to register visit:https://forms.gle/59FEfFyk9cLKhJoz9
Space is limited, so register today!

Join us for a workshop designed to introduce individuals new to the shooting sports to handguns.

This workshop will provide the most novice user with the knowledge and skills necessary to begin their journey into the shooting sports, specifically safe handling and usage of handguns.

Focus will be on the basics in a non-threatening, safe and engaging environment for new shooters. It will provide a practical introduction to handguns through nomenclature breakdowns, fundamental shooting skills, safe firearm handling techniques and ultimately live-fire exercise all under the watchful eye of experienced and trained range safety personnel and staff.


Women in the Outdoors Workshop

When: Sunday, July 14, 2024
​8:30am- 4:30pm

Where: Thurmont Conservation Club, Thurmont, MD 21788

For more details and to register visit:
https://tinyurl.com/38wch6ps

For descriptions of skills being offered visit:
2024 WITO Skills Class Descriptions

Lunch, all materials, and equipment will be provided. This is a free event, but space is limited.

Women In The Outdoors (WITO) features outreach opportunities for women who seek outdoor adventures or more quality time with family and friends. All classes in the program are taught by experts in those fields and focus on providing a welcoming and low-key environment geared toward newcomers to outdoor pursuits. You will receive small group, hands-on, instruction, meet new friends, learn some tips and tricks, and walk away with a new appreciation for the role we serve within nature. ​This workshop is open to all, 15 and older, regardless of experience level.  Participants will have the opportunity to learn a variety of outdoor skills including shooting sports and firearm handling, archery, angling, hunting basics and wild game preparation.


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​For more information, please contact:

Victoria Vayer(she/her)
R3 Coordinator & Videographer
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Tawes State Office Building
580 Taylor Ave., E-1
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Office: (410) 260-8554
torey.vayer@maryland.gov


 Mentored Hunt Program


National Hunting and Fishing Day