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Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests to Close Areas for Recreational Shooting
Attention all outdoor enthusiasts and recreational shooters! The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests are set to close certain areas to recreational shooting in an effort to ensure the safety of residents and funnel shooters into designated ranges. This decision comes as part of an ongoing effort that began in 2019, aiming to limit recreational shooting in specific areas across the 1.4-million-acre forest.
Forest Supervisor Monte Williams announced the closures in a recent press release, highlighting the importance of improving public safety while providing new, developed recreational shooting opportunities. The closures will coincide with the completion of new shooting ranges in the region.
According to the Forest Service, most of the planned closures will take place in Gilpin and Boulder Counties. Larimer County will also see closures, particularly in the Poudre and Big Thompson Canyons. These closures are necessary to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.
Unsuitable Areas Identified
Reid Armstrong, public affairs officer for the Forest Service, explained that areas like the Poudre Canyon and near Red Feather have been identified as unsuitable for recreational shooting. It’s important to note that these closures do not affect legal hunting activities.
The closures will be implemented once new shooting ranges in the area open. For instance, the Devil’s Nose Target Range, currently under construction and set for completion in the summer of 2024, will lead to closures on 94,900 acres in Grand County and northern Larimer County.
Rising Population and Safety Concerns
The decision to close certain areas for recreational shooting comes as Colorado’s population continues to grow, with a significant increase along the Front Range. The Northern Front Range Recreational Sport Shooting Management Partnership, a coalition supported by various entities including counties, the U.S. Forest Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, highlighted the safety concerns arising from the proximity of shooting activities to residences and high-use public areas.
Clear Creek Shooting Sports Park, scheduled for completion around 2025, will lead to additional closures in northern Clear Creek and Gilpin counties. Specific information on the areas to be closed will be provided as the new shooting ranges near completion.
So, if you’re a recreational shooter or enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, be sure to stay informed about the upcoming closures in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. Safety is paramount, and these measures are designed to ensure a secure environment for all visitors.
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