DNR Shooting Range Grant Applications Now Open

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced it is accepting applications for the Shooting Range Grant Program through July 15, 2023. 

The grant program provides financial assistance for creating safe and accessible firearm and archery shooting opportunities for the public. Managers of public or private shooting ranges or members of the public interested in building a new range are encouraged to apply, especially if located near highly populated areas where similar services are not currently available. Ranges operating as a business-for-profit are not eligible for funding.

Previous projects awarded grants included renovating or constructing backstops, shooting benches, restrooms and indoor ranges. Former grant winners are welcome to apply again. The shooting range grant is administered as reimbursement for incurred expenses. All new construction must be ADA-compliant.

This year, the grant program will have $800,000 available for range improvement projects. In 2022, the DNR approved 14 projects totaling $716,541 in requested grant funds, leveraging $145,800 in matching contributions and $908,500 in total project costs.

The shooting range grant funding is made possible by a federal excise tax on firearms, ammunition and archery equipment.

More information about applying, eligible items and resources can be found on the DNR’s Shooting Range Grant Program webpage.