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NEW HAVEN – August 14, 2014. Remember being told to go outside and play? That turns out to be great advice.  Opie’s World: Tap Into Nature, a feature of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority’s Recreation program, helps children and adults reconnect with the natural world and each other.  On Wednesday, August 20, from noon until 4:00 p.m., a team of Authority employees will help visitors young and old with fishing, nature crafts and hands-on activities such as breaking open rocks to find the treasures inside and learning how clouds help predict weather at this free program. This family event will take place at the Maltby Lakes Recreation Area on the westbound side of Route 34 at the West Haven/Orange town line.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) Kellogg Nature Centerwill also be providing activities. As an added attraction, there will be atlatl demonstrations. An atlatl is a spear-thrower, a weapon that could throw a spear with enough force to penetrate a mammoth’s hide. It was used in North America for about 10,000 years.

Opie is a cartoon opossum who guides children and parents through the four seasons of activities.  “Spending time outdoors is important to a child’s healthy growth and development,” Authority Communications and Outreach Manager Kate Powell said. “Through Opie’s World, parents and children can escape and explore nature’s wonders yet still be home in time for dinner.”

Similar to the DEEP’s “No Child Left Inside” program, Opie’s World: Tap Into Nature was developed to encourage young people to unplug and get outdoors to appreciate our forests, rivers, and wildlife.

The Authority’s 30-year old recreational program spans 13 towns in the Greater New Haven region, and has long offered some of the areas’ best water views and four seasons of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The three Maltby Lakes, Lake Saltonstall and Lake Chamberlain are open for fishing, and there are nine areas for hiking in Madison, Killingworth, Guilford, Northford, East Haven, Branford West Haven, Bethany, Orange, Seymour and Woodbridge. A family permit costs $35 for one year and $50 for two years. Individual permits are $25 for one year and $40 for two. Mention Opie to receive a $5 discount. To purchase a permit, call 203-401-2654.