PROVIDENCE - On Saturday, August 8, the Department of Environmental Management will host the final event of the 2015 Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit at Burlingame State Park and Campground in Charlestown. The event will include a grand prize ceremony where pre-registered Pursuit participants will win prizes of outdoor equipment donated by local retailers and sponsors.
The Great Outdoors Pursuit is designed to encourage the use of state parks in an effort to move towards a healthier lifestyle. The event at Burlingame is the culmination of the 2015 program where teams earned credit for taking part in outdoor adventures. The prizes, donated by Verizon, UnitedHealthcare and Clivus New England, will be awarded at 2:30 p.m. and include:
A family 4-pack of kayaks and kayaking accessories (valued at approximately $1,099) A deluxe family camping package (valued at $603) A family fitness package (valued at $408) A family hiking package (valued at $295) A family beach package (valued at $191) A family ocean exploration package (valued at $210)
The number of events the teams attend will determine which prize category they are eligible for. Other prizes and raffle items will also be awarded.
The Burlingame event will also include nature walks, hayrides, a campfire safety demonstration, live music and other nature, health and environmental education exhibits. Registered teams will also have the option of camping overnight when they can enjoy evening activities such as a reptile show, a campfire sing-a-long, s'mores, stargazing, and an outdoor family movie. A complete list of activities and exhibitors appears below.
Approximately 1,593 people participated in the 2015 program. The adventure began in June in the Blackstone Valley at Lincoln Woods State Park with kayaking, fishing and horseback riding. In July, participants learned all about navigating the great outdoors at Champlin Scout Reservation. Teams also joined in on another pursuit day at Rocky Point State Park, which consisted of numerous outdoor activities including an amusement park scavenger hunt. Teams also selected three events from a list of self-guided options.
For more information please visit www.riparks.com. If you need further assistance please contact Terri Bisson at (401) 222-2776, ext. 4402 or by email at terri.bisson@dem.ri.gov or Robert Paquette at (401) 667-6200 or by email at Robert.paquette@dem.ri.gov.