In order to help get kids and families outside having fun in the snow, Midcoast Conservancy is partnering with the Outdoor Sports Institute to lease affordable, quality cross country ski equipment to local kids ages kindergarten through eighth grade. Families can lease high quality skis, boots, and poles through Midcoast Conservancy for the entire winter. Each child will get sized for the gear and then take it home for the season so they can ski on great equipment wherever, whenever they want.

There are three fit-and-take-home days: Saturday, Dec. 2, the fitting session will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CLC YMCA in Damariscotta; On Thursday, Dec. 14 from 3-6 p.m., and Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 3-5 p.m., at Midcoast Conservancy’s new office at 290 Atlantic Highway (Rt. 1) in Edgecomb. Equipment will be available at the Conservancy office. The child who will use the skis must be present.

The ski lease package is $65 per participant. Any questions about the ski lease program can be directed to Andy, andyb@midcoastconservany.org; details are online at midcoastconservancy.org/events.

In addition, Midcoast Conservancy will hold the annual Kids XC-Ski Clinic for kids ages 5-12 for six weeks, from January 6 to February 10, 9:30-11 am. The clinic is the perfect setting for skiers of different levels to gain confidence and enjoy HVNC’s trails. Instructors use fun, non-competitive methods to get the skiers out on the trails having fun each week.  For more information or to register, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/6-week-youth-cross-country-ski-clinic.

Once kids have had a chance to get comfortable on their skis, they can register for the 7^th Annual Liberal Cup Biathlon at HVNC on Sunday, March 4. There will be youth and high school categories, and prizes awarded for best costumes too! Registration will be opening soon. Call 207-389-5150 with any questions ... and think snow!