Program Update - Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program - U.S. ...

Hunter Education
Athens Archery Park, AL
The grand opening and dedication ceremony for Alabama’s first community archery
park took place in Athens, Alabama, on February 28, 2008. Access to archery
ranges, although not as impaired as firearms ranges, is becoming increasingly more
difficult. Lack of convenient locations to participate has been identified as a barrier
that prevents some individuals from becoming involved in the shooting sports. The
construction of the Athens’ public archery range in Limestone County will result in
increased public access in Alabama’s 17th most populated county. This range should
enhance efforts to initiate participation of Athens City and Limestone County Schools
in Alabama’s National Archery in the Schools Program. The new facility is equipped
with four youth targets (5-20 yards) eight adult targets 15-50 yards) and a 12-foot
elevated platform with 3-D and Olympic style targets. The range was developed
through a partnership with the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division,
City of Athens, and the Archery Trade Association and funded in part with a Wildlife
Restoration section 10 funds. The AL Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources constructed the range, and the city will provide routine maintenance such
as grass cutting and litter removal.
Athens Archery Park, AL
Grand opening of Archery Park. Photo by Wayne Waltz
Wildlife and Sport Fish Program Update September 2008 31