ESCANABA — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is seeking local volunteers and community organizations to serve as mentors at the DNR Pocket Park during the upcoming Upper Peninsula State Fair, scheduled for Aug. 17-23.

The one-acre park, located within the U.P. State Fairgrounds off U.S. Highway 2, provides hands-on outdoor recreation and skills training for youth. Volunteer duties during the fair include assisting children with catch-and-release fishing in the U.P.-shaped bluegill pond, supervising pellet gun and archery ranges, staffing the fire tower, and greeting fairgoers.

“Most folks who volunteer at the Pocket Park find it to be a very rewarding experience, with many returning t1 offer their help again this year,” said Grace Charles, the lead interpreter at the Pocket Park.

Volunteer training for all activities is provided. Shifts during fair week include:

Monday, Aug. 17: 5 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 18 through Saturday, Aug. 22: 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and 3:30 to 7 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 23: Noon to 3 p.m.

Local businesses, clubs, and civic organizations are also encouraged to sponsor full shifts by mobilizing their employees or members. Recognition of the group or business will be prominently displayed and announced.

All volunteers must be at least 16 years old unless preapproved under special circumstances, and all applicants must pass a standard background check. The DNR provides full training for all activities, and volunteers will receive a meal and a T-shirt for their service.

Outside of fair week, the Pocket Park is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day for picnics, school groups, and public events.

Those interested in volunteering can register online or contact Charles directly via email at DNR-UP-PocketPark@Michigan.gov.