Mark those calendars, and get ready to explore wildlife and wild places at the free Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) Outdoor Expo.

AZGFD is hosting its annual event March 28-29 at the world-renowned Ben Avery Shooting Facility in north Phoenix. What can you do at the Outdoor Expo?

• Cast a line and get hooked on fishing at the kids' fishing tank.
• Meet live wildlife ambassadors.
• Engage with experts about Arizona's wildlife, fishing, hunting, boating, off-highway vehicles and more.
• Experience a variety of shooting sports in a safe, supervised, controlled environment.
• Shop for antlers, hides, skulls, and head mounts at the wildlife assets tent and auction.
• Visit with more than 120 exhibitors, including outdoor recreation and conservation groups, government agencies, and commercial vendors of outdoor products and services.
• Learn the who, what, where, when, and how for responsible recreation in Arizona.
• Discover how you can become a Hero for Wildlife, and . . . HAVE FUN!

"We're not aware of any other free event that combines conservation, recreation and industry into such a welcoming environment for the public," said Tom Finley, AZGFD director. "This is where people can find plenty of hands-on activities, see educational exhibits, presentations, test and purchase the latest equipment and products, and connect with social organizations that can provide countless 'next step' experiences to support their outdoor passions."

Want a shot at winning a special prize pack from Marsupial Gear, No Excuse Hunting and Outdoors, or Umarex USA? Then register now to attend the event and be entered in the drawing.

Admission and parking are free. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 28; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29. The Outdoor Expo is located on Carefree Highway, about one-half of a mile west of Interstate 17, in north Phoenix.

More information: www.azgfd.gov/expo.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department receives no general fund tax dollars. The majority of funding to manage more than 800 native wildlife species comes from Arizona's hunters and anglers.