ESCANABA, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan’s youth and adults can experience outdoor recreation and rack up volunteer hours in the Upper Peninsula this August.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) needs mentors to help staff its Pocket Park in Escanaba during the Upper Peninsula State Fair, Aug. 17-23. Volunteer activities include helping kids catch and release bluegills in the U.P.-shaped pond, shoot pellet guns or bows and arrows, staff the fire tower, and greet visitors.

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“Most folks who volunteer at the Pocket Park find it to be a very rewarding experience, with many returning to offer their help again this year,” said Grace Charles, lead interpreter at the Pocket Park. “The park attracts big crowds, which means we have a lot of available shifts for volunteers to fill.”

The DNR Pocket Park, a 1-acre site located within the U.P. State Fairgrounds off U.S. 2, caters to kids seeking an outdoor adventure or wanting to learn a new outdoor skill. The U.P. State Fair draws more than 100,000 visitors annually.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and pass a background check. More information can be found here.