Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has released a new guide for Victorian shooting ranges that will help in the reduction of pollution and contamination from the popular sport.
Victoria has hundreds of shooting ranges many of which have operated for decades and which have an increasing focus on protecting the environment.
The Guide for Managing Contamination at Shooting Ranges was developed in collaboration with the shooting community and provides Victorian outdoor shooting ranges with information to help them prevent, manage and contain contamination from their activities.
“This is an Australian first. The contributions of the local sports shooting community builds on international best practice material to create a guide which is tailored to Victorian conditions,” said EPA Acting CEO Damian Wells.
“Shooting is an important sport enjoyed by many Victorians especially in regional areas and the Victorian government is committed to supporting these sports while maintaining a healthy environment.
“The partnership with the sport of shooting has been fantastic and EPA thanks all the contributors to the Guide.”
Importantly, the Guide for Managing Contamination at Shooting Ranges, is not a rule book and does not dictate how to run your range, but the information it provides will help shooting clubs and range operators ensure the future viability of their sport.”
The Victorian Government is committed to supporting these sports and ensuring they continue to provide benefits to the Victorian community.
EPA recognises the contributions and endorsement from the following associations in the production of the Guide which is now available at https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/business-and-industry/guidelines/shooting-ranges-guidance :
- Field & Game Australia
- Sporting Shooters Association Australia, Victoria
- Victorian Amateur Pistol Association
- Victorian Clay Target Association
- Victorian Rifle Association
- Victorian Sporting Clays Association
The Guide for Managing Contamination at Shooting Ranges is available free on-line as a downloadable .pdf document and EPA will be contacting individual range operators and clubs via the shooting community network to promote its use.