Funding Approved for New, Expanded, Archery Ranges in Montana
Throughout the Montana there are endless ways to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, year-round. And thanks to the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Department, there are more opportunities than ever before.
This past month, we read an informative story in the Flathead Lake Beacon about funding that became available to build a new archery range just northwest of Polson and enhance the already popular Archery Trail at Lone Pine State Park.
The article noted that both projects will be funded from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, a.k.a. “Pittman-Roberson Act.” which provides federal aid to states for management and restoration of wildlife. This particular funding is focused on increasing public shooting sports opportunities.
Prior to receiving the grant, the Department acquired public input through an environmental assessment program. When the input was evaluated, it became clear that archery enthusiasts were anxious to get new or enhanced facilities within the Flathead.
Big Arm State Park & Archery Range in Montana
The new archery range will be developed on the west side of the Park’s entrance located on U.S. Highway 93. Currently, this area is a popular hiking area. The Park is well used for camping, swimming, and picnicking in the warmer months. Big Arm is a popular starting point for boaters to access Wild Horse Island, a 2,163-acre island in Flathead Lake State Park, located off the lake’s west shore. The island is home to bald eagles, bighorn sheep, yellow-pine chipmunks, and wild horses. Wild Horse Island is accessible only by boat.
Lone Pine State Park & Archery Range in Montana
The Park’s mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing trails are also home to an existing Archery Trail which is the only developed public range in the Flathead Valley. At this point, the Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Department is securing additional funding to expand the archery services and facilities. If you have yet to visit this Park in Kalispell, plan a trip and bring a picnic. Its 360-degree views are some of the best you will ever find of the Jewel Basin and Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, and Big Mountain.
National Archery Programs in Montana
Fortunately for those who live in Montana and love sharing the great outdoors with their kids, Montana is home to several National Archery in the Schools Programs (NASP). As noted within their website:
NASAP is an in-school program aimed at improving educational performance among students in grades 4 – 12. Students learn focus, self-control, discipline, patience, and the life lessons required to be successful in the classroom and in life.
While researching more information about this program, we were impressed with its statistics.
Since its inception in 2002, NASP® has put a bow and arrow in the hand of over 18 million students, grades 4 – 12. What happens next is what they described as “truly magical…”
91% of the students pursued other outdoor activities
58% were more engaged with their school
50% of the students are girls, 50% are boys – and the best part, they work together as team
To learn more about NASP, contact Ryan Schma, the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks representative. He can be reached at rschmaltz@mt.gov.
List of Archery Ranges & Archery Clubs in Montana
You will find an impressive list of archery clubs and ranges in Montana within this link. We hope you find this extensive list to be a helpful tool.
