Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

Hatch, Bloom, and Explore this Spring at a DEM Outdoor Education Course

Published on Tuesday, February 18, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) has another season of great spring programs scheduled to connect Rhode Islanders with our state’s beautiful natural resources. From Vernal pool and sky dance nights to learning the ins and outs of spring turkey hunting. DFW’s Aquatic Resource Education, Hunter Education, Wildlife Outreach and Volunteer programs have planned a schedule with plenty of opportunities to learn about Rhode Island’s fish and wildlife resources or to try out a new outdoor skill. Most of the programs being offered this winter are free of charge and family friendly. 

Wildlife Outreach Programs: 

Wildlife Management Areas 101 

Whether you love hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, birdwatching, or horseback riding, RI’s Wildlife Management Areas are beautiful places to explore and enjoy nature! While these conservation lands are open to the public, there are some rules visitors need to follow to keep both people and wildlife safe. Join DFW’s outreach team for an intro to state lands, wildlife conservation in RI, and ways to access your state’s natural resources! This program is FREE, but registration is required so that staff can prepare materials. 

Coexisting with Coyotes 

Coyotes are greatly misunderstood, but most of their fear-instilling actions are simply a part of their life history and strategy for survival. Still, these critters can become a nuisance, especially if they begin to den under decks and dine out of chicken coops. Learning why these creatures behave the way they do is the key to finding resolution. Join DFW to learn about coyote natural history, discoveries made by the Narragansett Bay Coyote Study, and ways to coexist with them.   

Vernal Pool Night 

Spring has sprung and amphibians are on the move! Join us for an evening walk listening and looking for wood frogs, spring peepers, toads, and salamanders! As we search for these slimy creatures, you’ll learn about various DFW conservation projects aimed at helping our state’s amphibians, as well as ways you can get involved to help right in your own backyard. Please note, participants will not be entering any wetlands and will be staying on the trail together as a group. This program is FREE , but registration is required. Please note that the date and time are subject to change based on temperature and amphibian activity. 

  • Date: Friday, March 28 
  • Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM  
  • Location: Great Swamp Management Area, West Kingston 
  • Age: Adults and Families with youth ages 8 and up. 
  • Register here: https://forms.office.com/g/fUMJym884k 

Sky Dance Night 

Kick back, relax, and join DFW to witness one of spring's most exciting events, the sunset "sky dance" of the American woodcock! While waiting for these quirky birds to begin their theatrical performance, you’ll learn about our collaborative research efforts with URI graduate students and young forest habitat conservation work. This event is FREE, but registration is required. 

Bear Necessities

Black bears have returned to Rhode Island and have been spotted ambling around the state! While these large mammals can be intimidating, coexistence is possible when you are “Bear Aware.” Join DFW staff to learn about these beautiful creatures and actions you can take to avoid issues with bears. This event is FREE , but registration is required so staff can prepare enough materials. 

Hunter Education Programs:

Bowhunter Education Certification Classes 

The course is ideal for beginners, and anyone seeking to refresh or expand their knowledge of safe and responsible bowhunting practices. Participants under the age of 16 or those who cannot transport themselves, must have an adult or legal guardian with them for the class duration. To legally bow hunt in RI, you must be at least 12 years old. Upon successful completion and passing a final exam,  participants will receive a Bowhunter Safety Education certification, which is required to purchase a bowhunting license in RI.

Hunter Education Certification Classes

The course is ideal for beginners and anyone seeking to refresh or expand their knowledge of safe and responsible hunting practices. Participants under the age of 16 or those who cannot transport themselves, must have an adult or legal guardian with them for the class duration. To legally hunt in RI, you must be at least 12 years old. Upon sufficient course completion and passing a final exam,  participants will receive a Hunter Safety Education certification, which is required to purchase a firearm hunting license in RI.

Into to Turkey Hunting Workshop 

Spring is just around the corner! Curious about turkey hunting but don’t know where to start? Whether you are a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, this class is perfect for anyone eager to explore the thrilling world of turkey hunting. Connect with those who share your interests and learn from seasoned experts. Space is limited, register today.  

April 2025 Youth Turkey Hunt – Partnered with The Light Foundation 

DEM is excited to team up with The Light Foundation for the fifth consecutive year to present the 2025 Mentored Youth Turkey Hunt. Youth ages 12-15 who hold a valid RI Hunter Safety Certification are invited to apply for this amazing opportunity. Applications are due by March 10, so don’t wait!

Aquatic Resource Education Programs:

Kids Day at Addieville: Intro to Fly Fishing 

This introductory class is designed for youth ages 10-15. Students will learn about the equipment needed to fly fish, how to tie flies, how to cast a fly rod, safe and responsible fishing techniques.. Lunch is provided. A parent or guardian must be present for the duration of the class. 

Registration is required; registration opens Feb. 17. 

  • Date: Saturday, April 19 
  • Time: 9 AM - 3 PM 
  • Location: Addieville East Farm, Harrisville  
  • Age: Youth ages 10-15 
  • Register here: Email Kimberly.Sullivan@dem.ri.gov 

Intro to Freshwater Fly Fishing 

This introductory workshop is designed for both the beginner and the intermediate fly-fishing angler. Students will learn about the equipment needed to fly fish, how to tie flies, how to cast a fly rod, safe and responsible fishing techniques. Lunch is provided. Families with children 12 and older are welcome to join. Registration is required and opens Feb. 17. 

  • Date: Saturday, May 17 
  • Time: 9 AM – 2 PM 
  • Location: Addieville East Farm, Harrisville 
  • Age: Families and youth 12 and older. 
  • Register here: Email Kimberly.Sullivan@dem.ri.gov 

Volunteer Program: 

Help Monitor Herring This Spring! 

Looking for a peaceful outdoor activity this spring? Help us count herring during their annual spring migration! Volunteers are needed to conduct quick, 10-minute fish counts at designated DEM fish ladders across the state. The counting season runs from April through May, and you can participate at your convenience. 

For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates. Follow DFW on Facebook and Instagram (@ri.fishandwildlife) to stay up to date on news, events and volunteer opportunities. You can also subscribe to DFW’s monthly newsletter here. Sign up here to receive the latest press releases, news, and events from DEM's Public Affairs Office to your inbox.