Shooting range plan will be discussed

A plan to create a large location in Carson City for local shooting clubs to practice will be discussed by a citizens panel Tuesday.

The Parks and Recreation Commission will hear about the idea, which is still in its conceptual stage, said Roger Moellendorf, department director.

Being eyed for a multi-use shooting range is a 305-acre parcel a mile east of Sedge and South Deer Run roads. Shooting enthusiasts who engage in rifle, skeet, pistol, trap and archery also could hold tournaments on the site, now owned by the Bureau of Land Management.

"It makes sense to consolidate them all," Moellendorf said. "It'll make the area safer and more secure if the clubs are all together."

The city is considering obtaining ownership or more control of the area. Easier management is one reason why the city wants to attract these hobbyists to a single location. It would bring added safety to the site and surrounding area, including making it easier to maintain fire breaks, Moellendorf said.

The current pistol range at 4000 Flint Drive has been the site of four fires this season alone. Gunfire has been apparent cause of some of the blazes that have originated in the extremely dry and grassy areas around the range, according to the Carson City Fire Department.

Combining shooting activities this way also would eliminate the dangers and nuisances resulting from people shooting firearms and arrows in undeveloped areas around the city, Moellendorf said.

A well-designed facility - with sections expressly designed for each specific use - would draw in many shooting enthusiasts, reducing the number of animals being shot and likely cutting down the number of old appliances and other junk now dragged out to various sites for targets.

The operators of the Capitol City Gun Club at 3590 Arrowhead Drive also are interested in seeing this type of facility in Carson City. The club for skeet-and trap-shooters plans to also operate a large clubhouse and high-end restaurant there.

A state-of-the-art shooting range with ample amenities could serve as a venue for shooting competitions. Visitors would help raise the city's lodging occupancy rates and, in turn, add to its tax base, said Dave Fielder, manager of the gun club.

Some residents, however, have voiced concerns about noise, access and safety of people and animals that now roam around the proposed site.

If a shooting range were constructed in the area, it would "impact our quality of life," said Eddie Mayo, who lives nearby. "And our property values."

This BLM-owned site is among dozens around Carson City being considered for changes in ownership or management. The Board of Supervisors will consider the larger land-management issue later in the fall. A federal lands bill proposal, which should address some of the city's site-management concerns, needs to be ready by December.

• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber @nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.

If you go

What: Carson City Parks and Recreation meeting

When: 5:30 p.m. Tuesday

Where: Sierra Room, Community Center, 851 E. William St.