For Immediate Release July 1, 2004
Contact:  Mel Lloyd (970) 244-3097

Media Advisory: Recreational shooting ranges take shape

GRAND JUNCTION—Financial assistance from the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) and back-breaking labor from 11 generous volunteers are transforming the 27¼ Road shooting ranges, located on land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), into designated recreation sites that offer a more enjoyable shooting experience.

John Evans is a local retiree who organized several folks he met, while on the shooting range, to do periodic clean ups. John did not stop there; he persuaded Sportsmen’s Warehouse to donate funds for repairs and upgrades to firing line structures. Two other volunteers have constructed six new shooting benches that were installed by BLM Civil Engineer and Technician John Ryan and Crew 7 from the Delta Correctional Center.

DOW has also funded new shooting etiquette signs that are scheduled for installation by correctional crews on July 7. Citizens-on-Patrol, a volunteer group organized by the Mesa County Sheriff’s Department, is making periodic visits to help in educating the public.

The Bureau of Land Management relies on volunteers and user group partnerships within the community in fulfilling its multiple use mission. For further information, contact BLM Transportation Planner Jim Cooper at (970) 244-3047.

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