Continued misuse leads to indefinite closure of Missouri shooting range

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KCTV) - A state-run shooting range in Northwestern Missouri has closed to the public after continued misuse put community safety at risk.

The Missouri Department of Conservation announced on Monday, June 9, that it has made the difficult decision to close all shooting ranges at the Pigeon Hill Conservation Area indefinitely. The rest of the conservation area remains open to the public as usual.

Department leaders noted that the ranges, which can be found south of St. Joseph in Buchanan County, are some of their many unstaffed ranges statewide. An investigation has found clear evidence of range misuse, which has put public safety at risk.

“Unfortunately, the actions of unsafe, irresponsible shooting range s created a situation that we could not allow to persist,” said Justin McGuire, MDC’s Hunter Education and Shooting Range Coordinator.

While increased patrols and other security measures have been implemented to stop the misuse, conservation officials said unsafe practices have continued.

“MDC is committed to stopping illegal activity at our shooting ranges,” McGuire said. “The public can play a significant part in that process. By spreading the message of responsible use of the ranges, following all posted range rules, and notifying us when unsafe activity occurs, we can make sure these resources stay safe and stay open for all s.”

The Department has reminded anyone who visits staffed or unstaffed ranges to read up on regulations before their visit and to adhere to all posted rules. To report unsafe or illegal activity, call Operation Game Thief at 800-392-1111 or your local conservation agent.

“This decision was not made lightly,” said MDC Deputy Director Aaron Jeffries, “but it was the responsible course of action. Our first priority is the safety of the shooting range s and others in the area.”

While the Pigeon Hill ranges have closed, conservation leaders noted that other chances remain available in the area for target shooting:

• The Parma Woods Shooting Range & Outdoor Education Center near Parkville is staffed and provides rifle and pistol shooting.

• Riverbreaks in Holt County and Elam Bend in Gentry County both have unstaffed public shooting ranges.

To find a conservation agent by county, click HERE.

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