Find a Virginia Marina
Locations, with maps, amenities and other features.

Kids and river conservation in a booklet
It's the "Passport to the Central Rappahannock," put out by Friends of the Rappahannock.

You can catch BIG catfish from the shore
Two men tried their luck on the Rappahannock, across from Hopyard Farms. Read their story in Ken Perrotte's Outdoors column, which appears online and in Thursday's Free Lance-Star Sports section.

Kids weren't using this practice field across from Chancellor Elementary School, so it appears these geese took advantage of the opportunity. Lou Cordero, a freelance photographer who lives in Fauquier County, shot this photo. Send your photos for use in Mighty Outdoors to: rdennen@freelancestar.com

Maryland cutting take of female blue crabs (The Baltimore Sun)
Action in wake of winter survey showing Chesapeake Bay's population hit five-year low.

Emerald ash borer infestation widens (The Washington Post)
Study shows harmful impact of beetle to trees and those who live nearby.

Grab some bug repellent that works
One we like is OFF! DEEP WOODS VIII. It goes on dry and is 25 percent Deet.

Know how to build a lean-to, just in case
Emergency shelter when you're out in the woods: you never think about it until you need it. This video gives the basics.

Government Island nature walk, May 18
Virginia Master Naturalists are hosting this walk. Meet at the Coal Landing parking lot at 9 a.m. Theme is: spring in the forest and marsh.

Paddle the Fredericksburg river easement, May 18
See this bucolic and historic swath of Rappahannock waterfront with property manager Lee Sillitoe.

National Kids to Parks Day, May 18
Brought to you by the National Park Trust; search the map online for participating park outings in Virginia. One of them, with some great hikes and views, is Sky Meadows State Park in Delaplane in northern Fauquier County.

Kids' fishing tournament, June 1
In Leesylvania State Park, along the Potomac River in Woodbridge.

Kids' fishing derby, June 8
At Motts Run Reservoir; family friendly angling outing. Sponsored by Fredericksburg Parks and Recreation and Weekend Bassers.

Connect with the Fredericksburg Cyclists Club
Lots of rides for cyclists of all skill levels, not to mention meeting others who love the sport. Check out the ride calendar.

Ride the trails, and help maintain them
You can do both with the Fredericksburg Area Trail Management & User Group, also known as FATMUG.

Mighty Outdoors is a product of Star Radio Group and The Free Lance-Star Publishing Co., 616 Amelia St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401.