International Sportsmens Expo returns March 17-20

In its seventh year, the International Sportsmen's Exposition returns March 17-20 to the quarter-million-square-foot South Towne Exhibition Center in Sandy. Bigger and better than ever, this event will jump-start outdoor enthusiasts to spring and summer outdoor activities
throughout the state of Utah. With wider isles and more things to see, this show promises great family fun as they prepare for spring and summer activities.

Show-goers will have an opportunity to visit with more than 500 companies from around the world, offering the Rocky Mountain's largest selection of products and services for anglers, campers, hunters, boaters and recreational-vehicle enthusiasts. This event will showcase more world famous hunting and fishing legends than ever before, along with wildlife art, and a wide assortment of recreational activities--all under one roof.

Visitors to ISE's Ultimate Campsite can see the latest camping gear and listen to fun and informative presentations offered at the Campfire Theater. Local radio show host and author Brian Brinkerhoff will host activities throughout the day featuring fishing opportunities, camping destinations and acoustic campfire concerts.

In addition, the Campfire Theater will cover RV tips, outdoor gear, wildlife photography and fishing workshops. Saturday morning, radio host, Brian Brinkerhoff will update listeners of the most exciting activities on Backcountry Utah airing 8-9 a.m. AM 630 KTKK.

Competitions include the fourth annual World Championship Dutch Oven Cook-Off, the Best-of-the-West distance fly-casting championships, the fourth annual Utah Duck and Goose Calling Championship and the fourth Annual Utah Elk Calling Championship, hosted by world champion caller Chad Schearer. More than $40,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded for these
contests. Individuals are encouraged to sign up at the show.

To introduce new recreationists to the outdoors, demonstrations will include a fly casting pond, a fly-tying video theater and sporting-dog presentations, along with an ATV test track. As an additional treat, fishing presentations await at the huge, trout-filled mobile aquarium. There will also be two record displays at the show--Utah animal mounts and mounts from throughout the West. New horn and antler measuring information and a shed antler contest will be sponsored by Mossback Productions.

To support the future of outdoor recreation, the Youth Sports Fair, sponsored by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, features a catch-and-release trout pond, live bird, mammal and reptile displays, and several other hands-on activities of interest to the youngsters.

Show admission is $10, with discount coupons available at Gart Sports and Big O Tire stores. Youth 12 and under are admitted for free. Show hours are noon until 9 p.m. Thurs. and Fri.; 10a.m. until 9p.m. Sat.; and 10a.m. until 5p.m. on Sun. The South Towne Exhibition Center offers thousands of free parking spots, across the street and free shuttle busses for your convenience. For more information, visit http://www.sportsexpos.com
Campfire Theater presents camping opportunities at Sportsmen's Exposition

International Sportsmen Expositions and Brian Brinkerhoff, host of Backcountry Utah - Utah's Outdoor Radio Magazine, have joined forces to feature camping and fishing opportunities in the State of Utah at this year's International Sportsmen's Exposition in Sandy. Scheduled March 17 - 20 at the South Towne Expo Center, 9575 S. State St., there is no additional fee to attend the Campfire Theater, which continues throughout the show on the main floor.

As part of the Campfire Theater, topics range from recreational vehicles and boat camping opportunities to fishing techniques in the High Uintas and Boulder Mountains. Featured topics include family camping spots, camping resources, and ATV camping destinations. Other topics reflect new outdoor gear, cooking tips and remote campsites, reachable by airplane. By popular demand, fun family topics will revisit "Things that go bump in the night," displaying owls from the Ogden Nature Center and stargazing opportunities throughout the summer.

New this year is a wildlife photography workshop, hosted by Lynn Chamberlain and Brian L. Curie. A varmint and wild turkey calling presentation also awaits for photographers and family campers. Scott Root, with the Division of Wildlife Resources, will discuss camp critters and will have live bear cubs on display. Nancy Hoff will introduce the ladies to the Becoming an
Outdoor Woman program. A wilderness survival workshop is scheduled Sat. afternoon while gold and treasure hunting will be featured Sun. afternoon. As part of that segment, a sample of gold will be given away between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Musical entertainment will spotlight local artist Jeff Hinton and In Cahoots, a highly entertaining duo "from the town of Tumbleweed." River Road will merge their musical talents with the Fort Douglas Fife, Drum and Bugle Corps Fri. evening for a presentation honoring the US troops. Spirit Eagle Dancers offer spectacular Native American Dancing on Thurs. and Sat.
evenings.

World class fly-fishing techniques will be taught by Mike Lawson and Jack Dennis, while local anglers will appreciate a walleye fishing workshop, discover how to fish for Utah's State records, and learn new techniques for fishing and crayfishing Strawberry Reservoir. Backcountry Horsemen will share packing tips and another special feature covers nearby fishing locations, including backyard trout ponds.

Brian Brinkerhoff, host of the Campfire Theater, commented, "This year's Campfire Theater is bigger and better than ever. Topics are diverse and the entertainment will be great. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about camping and fishing in Utah. We encourage everyone to take advantage of these discussions." To view the latest Campfire Theater Schedule, link in from http://www.backcountry-magazine.com

Show admission is $10, with discount coupons available at Gart Sports and Big O Tire stores. Youth 12 and under are admitted for free. Show hours are noon to 9p.m. Thurs. and Fri; 10a.m. until 9p.m. Sat.; and 10a.m. until 5p.m. on Sun. The South Towne Exhibition Center offers thousands of free parking spots, across the street and free shuttle busses for your convenience. For more information, visit http://www.sportsexpos.com .
Prepare for spring Boating Safety

As air temperatures warm up and ice melts off the reservoirs, Utah State Parks boating officials remind everyone to be aware of the dangers of sudden spring storms and cold water temperatures.

State Boating Coordinator Dave Harris, commented, "You never know when you might end up in the water. Life jackets not only keep you afloat, but provide an extra layer of warmth. The combination of additional heat and flotation might mean the difference between life and death. Wearing a life jacket can also aid in self-rescue, providing you with extra time to climb back into your boat." He reported that if someone fell into 40-degree water, they would start losing movement in arms and legs within minutes and would probably not survive more than 30 minutes.

Statistics prove the importance of wearing life jackets. Three of four people who drowned in boating accidents would not have died had they worn a life jacket. State boating law requires all children 12 years of age and younger to wear a life jacket while a boat is in operation, and it is recommended that all boaters wear a life jacket at all times.

Remember to check local weather conditions. Sudden spring storms occur quickly, and often are accompanied by severe winds. Also, always share your boating plans with someone at home, including where you are going and what time you will return.

Current launch ramps now open include: Antelope Island and the Great Salt Lake State Marina (water level is low, best for small vessels only), Deer Creek, East Canyon, and Wide Hollow Reservoir at Escalante. Other waters worth considering for early spring include Jordanelle, Palisade, Quail Creek, Sand Hollow, Utah Lake, Willard Bay (north and south ramps open), and Yuba (main ramp open).

For additional boating safety information, call (801) 538-7220 or visit www.stateparks.utah.gov .
Off Highway Vehicle Safety encouraged for Easter Weekend

Utah State Park off-highway vehicle (OHV) managers remind everyone to ride safely and responsibly over the Easter holiday. Riders should be properly trained and prepared, and ride in a responsible manner.

Utah State Parks urges parents to enroll children in a Know Before You Go! training course, which is required by Utah law. By passing this course, drivers eight through 16 may legally operate an OHV. Drivers 16 years and older must have a valid driver's license or OHV education certificate. Remember, children under age eight cannot operate an OHV on public land. In addition to preparation and training, Utah State Parks OHV Education Specialist Eric Stucki offers the following guidelines for safe OHV riding:

- Always wear a safety-rated and properly fitted helmet, goggles, clothing covering arms and legs, and over-the-ankle boots.

- Check mechanical controls and safety devices on your machine before you ride to ensure proper operation.

- Do not take alcohol or drugs along for the ride.

- Ride your OHV only in areas designated for their use. The best way to protect your riding privilege is to stay on the trail.

- Do not carry passengers on single-person machines. However, never ride alone and always let someone know your itinerary.

- Carry tools and survival gear in the event of changing weather conditions and mechanical failure.

- Respect closed areas and private property. Don't cut switchbacks or take shortcuts. Remember, areas signed as wilderness are closed to all motorized vehicles.

- OHVs should not to be used as "babysitters" by parents at any time, especially in campgrounds or neighborhood roads.

To register for Know Before You Go! classes or for information on OHV laws and riding areas, contact the OHV Information Center at (801) 538-7433 from within Salt Lake City, or 1-800-OHV-RIDE (648-7433) from outside the area.
Purchase State Park Passes for the Summer Season

With spring approaching, now is the time to purchase your Utah State Parks Annual Pass. The $70 Annual Pass waives day-use fees into most state parks. Passes do not discount overnight camping or special use fees, such as golf. Utah seniors, 62 and over, may purchase a Senior Adventure Pass for $35. The Adventure Pass offers the same benefits as the Annual Pass.

Recreationists may also request a free Utah Field Guide. This brochure offers vacation ideas, descriptions, photographs, and facilities at Utah's 42 state parks. Those planning to boat, fish, picnic, or visit any state park museum, are encouraged to purchase an annual pass and pick up a free Utah Field Guide. Passes may be purchased at any state park, region office, or the Salt Lake office located at 1594 West North Temple. For more information, call (801) 538-7220.