The Department of Natural Resources is looking for volunteers to help children experience fishing and shooting at the Upper Peninsula Pocket Park during the U.P. State Fair, Aug. 17-23, in Escanaba.

Home to a stocked fishing pond, pellet gun shooting range, archery range and full-size fire tower, the Pocket Park is visited by thousands of youth during the U.P. State Fair each year -- many who catch a fish or experience a shooting sport for the very first time.

Volunteers are needed to help out at the Pocket Park by baiting hooks, teaching basic fishing techniques, and helping youth learn to safely and successfully shoot a pellet gun or bow and arrow.

In exchange for their time at the Pocket Park, volunteers are given a free T-shirt, snacks and cold drinks and complimentary admission to the fair. Both individuals and groups may sign-up to volunteer; groups who provide staffing for the day will be recognized on a sign at the Pocket Park's entrance.

"With budget cuts happening across state government, the help of volunteers becomes essential to the health of programs like the Pocket Park," said DNR Pocket Park coordinator Jon Spieles. "This year, we are trying to staff the park with only half the DNR employees we have had in the past. Please consider volunteering during the U.P. State Fair so that every child who visits the Pocket Park will have a chance to fully participate in this unique opportunity."

Individuals or groups who would like to volunteer at the U.P. Pocket Park should contact Debra Frazier at 906-293-5131 to sign up. For more information about the Pocket Park, contact Spieles at 906-293-5131.