A temporary restriction on recreational target shooting is now in effect on the Carson Ranger District because of critically dry fuels and increased wildfire danger.
The restriction limits recreational target shooting to between 6 a.m. and 1 p.m. It will remain in effect through October 31 or until conditions change.
Shooting connected to licensed hunting activities is exempt from the order.
“This temporary restriction prohibits people who are not hunting from discharging firearms on the Carson Ranger District after 1 p.m.,” said District Ranger Matt Zumstein. “Fire danger peaks during the hottest part of the day, and the combination of dry fuels and afternoon winds dramatically increases the chance of an ignition. This order is necessary to protect the public and natural resources while conditions remain extreme.”
Violating the restriction can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail. Anyone found responsible for starting a wildfire also will be held civilly and criminally liable.
The Forest Service plans to increase patrols on the Carson Ranger District while the restriction is in effect.
“The Forest will be bringing in extra officers to patrol and enforce the temporary shooting restrictions on the Carson Ranger District,” said Nick Laprade, Patrol Captain with Forest Service Law Enforcement & Investigations.
After 1 p.m., Forest officials recommend that people who want to shoot use private or county-designated shooting ranges while the restriction remains in place.
People who see illegal shooting on the Carson Ranger District can report it to the Nevada Division of Wildlife 24-hour Dispatch Center at (775) 688-1334 or the Ranger District Office at (775)882-2766. The Ranger District Office can be reached from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Officials say people should not approach anyone suspected of illegally shooting. Instead, they should gather information about the incident and provide it to an enforcement agency.
Useful details include the license plate number and description of the vehicle, including its make, model, year and condition; the number and descriptions of people involved; the date and time of the incident; the location and directions to the area and, if possible, GPS coordinates; and the name and telephone number of the person making the report. Cellphone photos can also be provided if available.
The Forest Service’s emergency shooting order and map are available on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest’s Alerts webpage.
