Oklahoma Wildlife Department
Outdoor Marketplace returns to 2008 Oklahoma Wildlife Expo
Oklahomans interested in the outdoors should mark their calendars now for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s fourth annual Oklahoma Wildlife Expo slated for September 26-28 at the Lazy E Arena, just north of Oklahoma City.
The Wildlife Department will be working with a range of organizations, individuals and outdoor-related companies to host the Expo — an event intended to promote and develop appreciation for Oklahoma’s wildlife and natural resources.
“The Expo is the state’s largest indoor and outdoor recreation event,” said Nels Rodefeld, information and education chief for the Wildlife Department. “Tens of thousands of people get a chance to enjoy the outdoors and maybe experience something new.”
Among many other activities, Expo visitors will be able to fish, shoot shotguns, kayak, ride mountain bikes, see and touch wildlife, attend dog training seminars and learn about recreation in the great outdoors. They will also be able to win a variety of free prizes thanks to the Expo’s generous sponsors. And just like last year, the Expo will feature the Outdoor Marketplace, a large area where commercial vendors will be selling their hunting and fishing-related merchandise and services. This year’s Marketplace will again feature venders under a large tent, but outdoor open-air spaces also have been added for displaying larger items such as ATVs and treestands. Nonprofit conservation organizations also will be able to sign up for free booth spaces to promote membership and educate sportsmen about their organizations. A 10’ x 10’ booth space under the tent costs $500, while a 20’ x 20’ outside space costs $500. Both include electricity.
“The Outdoor Marketplace was a big hit with Expo visitors last year, and we are glad to bring it back,” Rodefeld said. “It will be bigger and better than last year, and it will be a great opportunity to showcase your products to thousands of outdoorsmen.”
