Dutch ovens have proven to be very versatile cooking devices, particularly valuable for rustling up chow at camp or during other outdoor activities. Cooking with Dutch ovens has become quite an art. Happily, accomplished Dutch oven chefs are almost always willing to share recipes and provide tips. If you are interested in learning to use the old black pots, you won't want to miss two upcoming special events. The International Dutch Oven Society (IDOS) will hold its World Championship Cook-off this weekend, March 16-19, as part of the International Sportsmen's Expo at the South Towne Exposition Center in Sandy. The cook-off provides a great opportunity for enthusiasts to watch expert cooks at work, learn new techniques and discover new recipes.

The Dutch Oven Society was founded by Dick Michaud of Logan, Utah, and now has chapters scattered around the United States, mostly in Western states, plus one in New York and one in Florida. The society holds cook-offs and gatherings around the country. To participate in the World Championship, cooks have to qualify by winning an IDOS-sanctioned local event or be nominated by a local chapter. Top cooks from around the country will be here to participate.

Cook-off semi-finals will be held on March 17-18, with the finals scheduled for March 18.

The society will hold its Spring Convention April 7-8 at the Davis County FairPark. The Convention is open to the public and will include exhibits and demonstrations. There will, of course, be plenty of tasty Dutch oven fare to be sampled.

Over the years, the IDOS has participated in assembling several cookbooks, some of which are given as incentives when people make small donations to the Society. In addition, the IDOS Web site (www.idos.org) features many proven recipes, along with forums where members share tips and info.

The Davis area is included in the Society's Lake Bonneville Chapter. Information on joining is provided on the IDOS Web site.

The International Sportsmen's Expo (ISE) is a major retail show offering displays and workshops on all kinds of topics related to outdoor recreation--everything from fly casting instruction to duck calls and boat motors. It is a great place to learn about the latest gear and, in some cases, try it before you buy it.

The Expo is also a great place to connect with guides and outfitters and to learn about lodges, services and special trips. Exhibitors include some of the top names from around the Western United States.

The Expo is hosted by Doug Miller. Top sponsors include Sportsman's Warehouse, Channel 2 News and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

For more info visit the ISE Web site: www.sportsexpos.com.