DNR Accepting Shooting Range Grant Applications

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting applications for the Shooting Range Grant Program through July 15, 2025.

The grant program provides financial assistance for safe and accessible firearm or archery recreational shooting opportunities for the public. Managers of public and private shooting ranges that meet public access requirements or individuals interested in building a new shooting range are encouraged to apply. Ideal ranges are located near highly populated areas and offer educational programming for the public related to hunting and shooting sports. Ranges operating as a for-profit business are not eligible for funding.

Previous projects awarded grant funding include renovating or constructing backstops, shooting benches, restrooms and indoor ranges. Former grant winners can apply again.

The grant program is administered as a reimbursement grant for incurred expenses. All new construction must be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The 2025 grant cycle will have $600,000 available for range improvement projects. In 2024, the DNR awarded a program budget of $800,000 to 13 projects, leveraging $392,036 in matching contributions and $1,192,036 in total project costs.

New this year, before submitting a completed application, all applicants are required to contact Sarah Brenner, DNR Shooting Range Grant Program manager, at Sarah.Brenner@wisconsin.gov or 715-894-8666 or Brett Johanen, DNR public shooting range manager, at Brett.Johanen@wisconsin.gov or 608-772-4928 to discuss their interest in applying.

A federal excise tax on firearms, ammunition and archery equipment through the Pittman-Robertson Act makes the funding for the DNR Shooting Range Grant Program possible.

Visit the DNR’s Shooting Range Grant Program webpage for more information about applying, eligible items and resources.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.