IVCC offers outdoor education survival skills series

First course scheduled April 17

Illinois Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center offers the new Outdoor Education series: Survival Skills with instructor Jason Thompson in April and May.

In “Bow Drill,” (HLR-5316-04), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 17, students will make their own bow drill set and learn how to start a friction fire.

“Throwing Sticks,” (HLR-5308-05), 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 1, covers how to make and utilize throwing sticks, humankind’s first basic hunting weapon, for close-range small-game hunting. No animals will be harmed.

“Hand Drill,” (HLR-5317-05), noon to 2 p.m. Saturday May 1 will enhance students’ fire-making skills by teaching how to create a hand drill and the proper technique to use it. Completion of the bow drill class is recommended.

“Trap, Snare and Cord” (HLR-5306-05), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 15 covers how to make a figure-4 trap and rolling snare as well as how to make cord from local stinging nettle.

Classes meet in a classroom but students should be prepared to be outdoors. A knife, note-taking materials, camera, lunch, snacks and drinks are recommended. Classes are limited to eight students 18 or older.

A $10 discount is offered for attending all four classes. Visit www.ivcc.edu/communityeducation/outdooreducation.php. To register, call (815) 224-0447.