Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Training In March

February 22, 2016

Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Training Workshop
March 11-13, 2016
Princeton Blairstown Center
Hardwick

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife will host a free two-day training on the Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs (HOFNOD) program that shows youth how to participate in constructive outdoor activities while also learning critical skills such as patience, teamwork and problem-solving.

This HOFNOD workshop is geared towards teachers, adult staff and volunteers at schools and youth-centered, community- and/or faith-based organizations looking to offer an ongoing or year-round youth fishing, conservation and aquatic education program. HOFNOD is a great way to introduce youth to fishing, learning about their local water and other natural resources while supporting positive outdoor recreation activities and life skills. The program is flexible enough to be tailored to fit most organizations. The core message of the program is that a person does not need drugs, alcohol or tobacco, to have fun.

Participants of this training will be responsible for delivering the program to youth from beginning to end. Organizations that participate in the March 11 to 13 training program are eligible to receive professional development credits in conservation education and angling skills. Groups may also receive in-kind support such as fishing gear and equipment, education supplies and subsidized field trips such as charter boat fishing. Supplemental activities can be requested for fly-tying and fly-fishing, kayak fishing, crabbing and other outdoor activities.

Registration is required. A $50 deposit is required to reserve a seat at the training, which includes two nights' lodging, meals March 12 to 13, and all workshop materials. Checks are kept and become a program donation if you do not attend.

The event is rain or shine, but could be canceled in the event of extreme weather.

To register, complete the online form linked below, print and mail or e-mail to Liz.Jackson@dep.nj.gov.

Participation includes: two nights lodging, five meals (Saturday: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks; Sunday: breakfast, lunch and light snacks) and all workshop materials. Friday evening dinner is on your own. Bring: sleeping bag, pillow and toiletries; water bottle; camera; dress for the weather as some activities will go outside; and necessary medications.

The registration deadline is Tuesday, March 8, 2016. Once your registration application and deposit are received a confirmation packet will be e-mailed to you detailing what to bring and to reserve your spot.

Workshop Schedule

Arrive Friday evening, March 11: check-in 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Dinner on your own)
Course: Saturday, March 12: starts at 9:00 a.m.
Course: Sunday, March 13: 9:00 a.m. to about 4:00 p.m.

HOFNOD Training Registration Form (pdf, 42kb)