Farragut range free sight-in day set for Sept. 20

The shooting range at Farragut State Park reopened last summer after being closed for several years.

The closure allowed for extensive work that increased safety and reduced noise.

Administered by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the range is located at Farragut State Park near Athol.

The range is open from noon to 7 p.m. on Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from June 1 through Nov. 1.

The improved range includes all-weather shooting sheds, bench rests, safety baffles, safe backstops, side containment berms and target frames.

When the range is open, it is staffed by trained volunteers or Fish and Game employees. There is a $5 per shooter daily use fee.

On Saturday, Sept. 20, a special hunter sight-in day will be conducted. Free rifle targets will be available, and the $5 range fee will be waived.

The 100-yard and 200-yard rifle ranges and the shotgun range will be open.

Rimfire and centerfire rifles of less than .50-caliber, and shoulder-fired muzzle-loaded rifles may be sighted-in.

Work on the 50-yard handgun range is in progress, so it is not yet open.

Hunters will also be able to practice shotgun skills on the shotgun range. Hand-operated throwers are available, but shotgun shooters must bring their own clay targets.

Eye and ear protection is required. Shooters can bring their own, or purchase earplugs and safety glasses at the range. Individuals under 18 years of age are required to be accompanied and supervised by an adult.

If you are unable to attend this event, the range will be open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until Nov. 1.

To get to the range, head east on Highway 54 from Athol toward Farragut State Park.

Before you reach the park, turn left on Perimeter Road and watch for the range sign on your right. You no longer need to enter the park to get to the range.

The Farragut range was originally part of the Farragut Naval Training Station built in 1942.

After World War II, the range was turned over to the state and opened for use as a public shooting range.

Hunters are encouraged to come and check out this much-improved facility and get ready for fall hunting seasons.

For more information about the hunter sight-in event, contact Fish and Game wildlife biologist Barb Moore at (208) 769-1414.

Phil Cooper is a wildlife conservation educator in Coeur d'Alene for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.