Public comments on the assessment, which evaluates the options considered for shooting range development and their effects on natural resources, will be accepted for a 30-day period ending Aug. 12.
The DNR has requested a grant through the USFWS-administered Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act for construction of a new, public, outdoor shooting range in Roscommon County. The proposed range site, along the north side of Old M-55 in Section 14 of Richfield Township, is on property within the Roscommon State Forest.
The development of a new public range will enable the DNR to close other dispersed target shooting areas within the state forest that have proven not suitable for public use. The range will meet or exceed Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, provide hunters the opportunity to increase firearm proficiency and safety, and allow recreational shooters to practice their sport in a safe, accommodating area that extends availability beyond the summer months.
The proposed shooting range project will include development of:
An access drive, parking lot and accessible pathways that connect all range facilities.
Shooting structures for safety, sound abatement and weather protection.
Downrange berms with ricochet baffles, side berms and surface water management, created through earthwork activity.
Shooting stations for various distances, which may include 10-yard, 50-yard, 100-yard, 200-yard, 1,000-yard, sporting clay and skeet stations.
Concrete, universal parking spaces.
Educational and interpretive signage.
An evaluation of existing buildings for demolition or renovation.
The purpose of the environmental assessment document is to look at the feasibility of the alternatives considered for shooting range construction and the potential for environmental consequences associated with those options. The assessment was prepared in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, which applies to the actions of all federal agencies.
The draft assessment is available on the DNR website at Michigan.gov/ShootingRanges, under “Important shooting range updates.”
For additional information about the range funding and design, contact DNR shooting range specialist Lori Burford at 989-600-9114. Written comments or questions may be sent to BurfordL@Michigan.gov. Comments should be received no later than Aug. 12.
Further public comment opportunity may be offered in the future through the Richfield Township project review process, which the DNR will be applying for in the upcoming weeks.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit fws.gov. Connect with our Facebook page at facebook.com/usfwsmidwest, follow our tweets at twitter.com/usfwsmidwest, watch our YouTube Channel at youtube.com/usfws and download photos from our Flickr page at flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest.
