For women that want to become more comfortable in Maine's cold weather woodlands, the Winter Skills Workshop will provide instruction and field practice in several wintertime essential skills. This 2-day workshop will be held at Southern Maine Guide Service in Parsonsfield from Saturday 9 a.m. January 15 to Sunday 3 p.m. January 16. Activities will include using, selecting and maintaining snowshoes; building snow shelters; learning wilderness first aid; using map and compass; cooking over an open fire; planning food and menus for and organizing winter trips. The $150 fee includes instruction, meals and equipment.

A one-day Snowmobile Certification Workshop will be held in Holden on Saturday February 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The workshop is aimed at beginners and includes a MDIFW Snowmobile Safety Course Certification, plus hands-on snowmobile operation experience. Classroom time in the morning will cover proper operation and safety, laws, emergencies, basic map and compass, self-help first aid, and conservation/landowner ethics.

After lunch, participants will head out to a nearby course to practice their skills on snowmobiles. The workshop is co-sponsored by the Holden Snowmobile Club. The $25 fee includes instruction and snacks.

For more information, contact Emily Jones at 287-8069 emily.jones@maine.gov or check out the Department web site at www.mefishwildlife.com .