PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakotans have six invitations to STEP OUTSIDEã this summer. STEP OUTSIDEã is a national program of the National Shooting Sports Foundation and is being introduced in South Dakota by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks.

"These STEP OUTSIDEã events will offer hands-on instruction for newcomers in shooting skills, hunting, archery and fishing," said Al Bahe, GFP hunter education program coordinator. "Our approach is to make these family-based activities and events something parents and children can share together."

The first event will be held June 11 in Huron, followed by July events in Rapid City, Beresford and Pierre. Armour will host an event in August, with Spearfish wrapping up the schedule in early September.

Bahe said the STEP OUTSIDEã events being planned wouldn’t be possible without local support and partners. "When we introduced this concept to the volunteer instructors in the Hunter Safety And Firearms Education (HuntSAFE) program, several individuals immediately expressed interest in hosting an event in their area," he said. "That kind of local enthusiasm and partnership is exactly what we hoped to see to make STEP OUTSIDEã a community event."

Registration at some events is limited, so Bahe encourages participants to call now for registration details and to get signed up. "This will be another step in building on South Dakota’s outdoor heritage," he said. "With a good turnout this summer, we may be able to expand to more STEP OUTSIDEã events in new locations next year."

Dates, locations and contact information include: