Outdoor notes

BISON RANGE ROUNDUP

ANTELOPE ISLAND — The public is invited to attend a modern, Western roundup from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31, and if necessary, on Sunday, Nov. 1, when horseback riders move the Antelope Island bison herd from the southern tip of the island to the handling facility located at the park's northern end.

This annual event is an opportunity for the public to see the roundup of one of the nation's largest and oldest public bison herds.

Visitors may view the riders and bison from the east-side road leading to the Fielding Garr Ranch. A complete and sweeping view of the action is available from a safe distance. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars for a closer view of the animals and handlers.

Food, drink and memorabilia such as T-shirts and sweatshirts are available for purchase throughout the Bison Roundup.

From Nov. 6-8 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily, visitors may observe as the bison are weighed, blood-tested, inoculated, and scanned. All bison have a microchip implanted behind their ear, which serves as permanent identification and stores the animal's health history.

To reach Antelope Island State Park, take I-15 to Exit 332 (Syracuse-Freeport Center) and travel west on Antelope Drive to the entrance station. Park fees are $9 per vehicle or $3 for bicyclists and walk-ins. For more information, call 801-773-2941.

WINTER BIKE COMMUTING

Have you enjoyed commuting by bicycle during the summer months but are discouraged from continuing to do so through the winter months by the thoughts of the cold, darkness, snow and ice?

If you want to continue to commute by bike this winter but are not sure how, then come and attend a free presentation by REI staff member and veteran biker John Higgins. He will debunk the common perceptions about winter bike commuting and discuss the appropriate clothing, cycle accessories, route selection, planning and skills needed to enjoy bicycle riding year-round. It's a way to maintain your cycling momentum, motivation and fitness by learning how to keep pedaling from fall to spring.

The presentation will be Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. at the Salt Lake City REI store at 3285 E. 3300 South. For more information, call 801-486-2100 or visit the Web site at www.rei.com and use the store-locater feature.

SKI, SNOWBOARD TUNE-UP