Columbia County Shooting Range Closed After Substantial Rains Damage All Ranges
Contact(s): Brenda Von Rueden, DNR R3 Team Specialist, 608-228-4549, brenda.vonrueden@wisconsin.gov
The Oct. 1 torrential showers of rain caused mudslides and washouts, leaving significant backstop degradation at all ranges at the Columbia County Shooting Range, causing the DNR to close the entire facility until further notice.Photo credit: Contributed
POYNETTE, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources on Wednesday closed the entire Columbia County Shooting Range until further notice after torrential rains Tuesday night caused mudslides and washouts on the majority of the range berms.
Last week, the DNR closed the 25-foot handgun range for public safety reasons while the facility's other ranges remained open for public use. However, public users now are asked to seek other range options while storm damage repairs are made. DNR staff will work with contractors to make the repairs as quickly as possible, understanding the fall season is a popular time for range use.
The DNR is committed to providing a safe, enjoyable range experience for its users. In that endeavor, the department will continue to monitor, evaluate, and make necessary range modifications and improvements to ensure the public's safety while they recreate at DNR-managed ranges.
Please visit the DNR's website for more on public ranges.