The Hank Harmon Public Range in Juneau underwent a much-needed revamp this summer, thanks to a substantial investment of nearly $1 million from Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game (ADF & G) and an additional $100,000 contribution from the City of Juneau. The funding primarily stemmed from federal sales tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the refurbished range on September 26 this year, Ryan Scott, the director of ADF & G’s Division of Wildlife Conservation, exclaimed, “Everybody who buys firearms or ammunition or hunts, you made this happen.” The renovations focused on repairs and updates to the range's seating accommodations, parking lot, restrooms, and safety equipment.
The City of Juneau’s Parks & Recreation/Public Works served as the project lead. For the project, the city hired engineering firm ProHNS LLC to handle permitting, design, and construction management, and Juneau-based Island Contractors was tasked with executing the groundwork.
Across America, 861 public ranges are supported by federal tax monies from the shooting and hunting industry. Alaska’s Fish and Game manages three additional ranges beyond Hank Harmon, including the Rabbit Creek Shooting Park in Anchorage, Fairbanks Hunter Education Indoor Shooting Range, and Juneau Hunter Education Shooting Complex.
Many Alaskans hold dear cherished family memories forged at our state’s magnificent ranges.
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