Chandler Rod & Gun Club is hosting a free “Cast & Blast Weekend” that will introduce you and your family members to the great Arizona outdoors. All that is required is your attendance and some basic camping gear, and they will do the rest!

Clear your calendar for Saturday and Sunday, March 1-2, to experience a fishing pond, canoeing, 3D archery, small-caliber and shotgun firearm safety and shooting, and small game hunting for those that are interested.

The event will be held at the Powers Butte Wildlife Area in Buckeye. Powers Butte is approximately 60 minutes west of central Phoenix. Adjacent to the Gila River and comprising approximately 1,681 acres, Powers Butte offers a mixture of desert upland, agricultural, and wetland/riparian habitats. The area attracts a variety of wildlife species, including migratory birds and waterfowl like dove, ducks, geese, rails, and egrets. The uplands are inhabited by javelina, rabbit, mule deer and quail, as well as numerous reptile species.

Chandler Rod and Gun Club has an outstanding history of introducing families to the outdoors and is known throughout Arizona for its exciting family and youth outdoor programs and events. Over the last few years the club has served over 3,000 families each year with information, education and opportunities to help citizens better understand and enjoy the wild outdoors.

Space is limited and registration is required. To secure your spot for this unique event call, (480) 290-8344 or e-mail crgcastandblast@gmail.com.

For more information and maps of Powers Butte Wildlife Area visit http://www.azgfd.gov/outdoor_recreation/wildlife_area_powers_butte.shtml.

This event is sponsored in part by a grant from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. To learn more about the departments’ Local Sportsmen’s Group Grants Program, visit http://www.azgfd.gov/i_e/local_sportsmens.shtml.