WHITMIRE — The Indian Creek shooting range located on the Enoree Ranger district on the Sumter National Forest was temporarily closed last week for safety reasons but has since reopened.
“It is unfortunate that some users, not all, continue bringing dishwashers, televisions, wheelbarrows and household garbage to use as targets and leave it behind,” said Beth LeMaster, Enoree District Ranger.
Signs are clearly displayed at the free rifle range with “Pack it in, Pack it out,” and “No Garbage Pick-up” notices and prohibits the use of targets not specifically designed to be shot is prohibited.
For years volunteers have donated their time to clean the range weekly, but the problem escalated and forced a temporary closure until bullet-torn metal and broken glass from bulky appliances that posed a threat to the public, volunteers, and Forest Service employees were removed.
“Thank you to volunteers who have exceeded our expectations once again and have made it possible to reopen the range since safety issues have been mitigated. However, we ask the public to treat their rifle range area with respect because it’s all yours,” LeMaster said.
Congress began conserving these lands in 1891 and more than 100 years later, this gift continues to inspire, restore, and provide. From offering nearly endless ways to play to providing water, clean air, and resources for millions, each of the 174 national forests and grasslands highlight the best of America’s public lands heritage.
The U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation work to steward these lands on your behalf.
