 Every year, ISP and DNR partner to promote
firearm safety and awareness for hunters throughout Illinois during
hunting season. Six ISP districts have been designated to provide
ranges to hunters for test-firing and sighting-in their shotguns.
The ISP open ranges are located in a safe, controlled environment
and provide a unique opportunity for seasoned hunters to obtain
expert firearms advice from sworn officers. Firing ranges in Joliet,
Pawnee, Effingham, Macomb and Pittsfield will be open on Saturday
from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m."The Open Range Program provides hunters
with an opportunity to sight-in their shotguns before the upcoming
hunting season," said ISP Director Hiram Grau. "Safety is the number
one priority for hunters and observers during every hunting season,
and Illinois State Police and Conservation Police officers will be
on-site to ensure firearm safety protocols are offered," he added.
"Our collaborative efforts safely prepare hunters for the
upcoming seasons by honing their skills and ensuring their firearms
are in proper working condition. Every hunting season the DNR
promotes safety to our hunters so everyone involved can enjoy the
experience and be successful in the field," said Illinois Department
of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller.
Interested participants should contact one of the ranges listed
below before Saturday to make a reservation. Targets and use of the
range will be offered at no cost. Participants must possess a valid
firearm owner's identification card, provide their own ammunition
and transport the firearm legally -- unloaded and enclosed in the
proper case.
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ISP range locations:
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District 5 --
Joliet, 815-726-6377, ext. 255, Trooper George Del Rio
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District 9 --
Pawnee/ISP Academy, 217-625-2131, academy range staff
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District 12 --
Effingham, 217 347-2711, Sgt. Shad Payne
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District 14 --
Macomb, 309-833-4046, ext. 242, Trooper Neal Merry
-
District 17 --
LaSalle, 815-224-1171, Sgt. Quillard Skinner
-
District 20 -- Pittsfield,
217-285-2034, ext. 225, Trooper Brandon Douglas
[Text from file received from the
Illinois State Police]
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