Boosting Local Support for New and Expanded Shooting Ranges

This research was sponsored by the Sportsman’s Alliance Foundation. Funding was provided by the Multistate Conservation Grant (MSCG) Program F25AP00131, supported by the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program, and jointly managed by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Recent legislative changes make it easier for states to use Wildlife Restoration funds to construct or expand shooting ranges, and several multi-state conservation grants are showing how to identify where new ranges are needed. States and private range operators still face hurdles in gaining public support to build new ranges and expand existing locations. To increase public support, this study determined the economic impacts generated from a typical range visit, explored current concerns and benefits around range development and how to increase the number of people participating in recreational shooting through greater public awareness and acceptance of new ranges and increased capacity at current ranges. Results indicate it’s necessary to communicate the safe and controlled environment offered by shooting ranges and address concerns related to noise rage. Local economic benefits associated with ranges can be quantified using the economic impact calculator. Read the full report for more key takeaways.

2025 Boosting Local Support for New and Expanded Shooting Ranges

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