Missouri River Outdoor Expo Sept. 20-21

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NGPC news release, 9/9/08:

LINCOLN, Neb. – A popular autumn event returns to northeast Nebraska this month. The Missouri River Outdoor Expo, set for Sept. 20-21 at scenic Ponca State Park (SP), offers a variety of hands-on activities for all ages.
The Expo is in its fourth year. More than 38,000 visitors participated in 75 activities last year in a variety of outdoor pursuits, including hunting, camping, fishing, shooting sports, kayaking/canoeing, outdoor cooking, wildlife observation, dog training, and much more.

There’s no better way to spend a weekend than in an outdoor setting overlooking the Missouri River. Outdoor activities may enhance wellness, promote active lifestyles that combat obesity, and ensure Nebraska’s outdoor heritage is passed on to future generations.

The primary focus of the Expo is introducing or reacquainting participants with services or programs sponsored by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and other outdoors partners. With the help of sponsors and more than 300 local volunteers, this introduction is done via hands-on outdoor activities and demonstrations that are free to the public.

Ultimately, after attending the Expo, a grandparent or parent may buy or dust off that fishing pole, Dutch oven, tent, or shotgun, take a family member outdoors, and perpetuate an outdoor tradition.

The Expo is a chance to paddle a kayak or shoot a bow and arrow for the first time. Some of the popular activities will include shooting sports (shotgun, muzzleloader, pellet gun, and .22 rifles), outdoor cooking demonstrations, live animals (courtesy of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo), fish and turtle tanks, and Missouri River boat tours.

A variety of outdoor vendors will include fishing tackle, hunting equipment, wildlife artists, ATVs, RVs, and boats. Food vendors will provide everything from funnel cakes to burgers. Guided hayrack shuttles will provide fun transportation throughout event at the beautiful state park.

Splash Dogs, a national touring dock-jumping competition for dogs, will be held both days and include professional and local jumpers. Last year, a local Labrador retriever jumped more than 22 feet. The Purina Incredible Dog Team, including seven trainers and more than 30 dogs, will show off the dogs’ athletic skills. The team also educates people about responsible pet care, including nutrition.

A new feature to the Expo is the Wild Whitetails exhibit, which includes more than 20 deer mounts of unique antler configurations.

Each vehicle entering Ponca SP requires a park entry permit. To purchase permits or for more information about the Expo, go to OutdoorNebraska.org.