Increase in shooting sport participation sparks interest, need for ranges

According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, more than 19 million Americans enjoy target shooting, and more citizens are turning to the shooting sports as a leisure-time activity. As firearm sales continue to increase, there is a growing need for new shooting ranges and enhancement of existing ranges. Unfortunately, there are not nearly enough public shooting facilities in Kansas to meet the needs of recreational shooters, hunters, and hunter education classes.

In an effort to fill this need, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is accepting applications for grants to build or improve Kansas shooting ranges. The intent of this program is to assist individuals, educational institutions, gun clubs, local governments, and others to develop basic shooting ranges in areas of the state where the need for public shooting facilities is greatest.

A total of $50,000 is available for shooting range development grants this year. This is a 75-percent reimbursement program. The applicant is expected to finance at least 25 percent of the entire project with cash, donated materials, labor, or some other approved in-kind match.

To apply, the Procedures Manual for Shooting Range Grant Application can be found online at the KDWP website. Just type "procedure manual” in the search box. Copies may also be requested by phoning 620-672-0748.

The deadline for applications is Dec. 1. No grants will be awarded before that date. Individuals or organizations that have submitted applications under the previous grant program will need to reapply.

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