DAVIS COUNTY — Davis County target shooters have options to practice their sport for free at the gun range operated by Davis County, but the state has banned shooting along most hillsides due to extremely dry weather conditions and high widlfire risk.

Wednesday, the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands banned target shooting in several areas statewide, including most areas in Davis County where county land abuts National Forest Service land.

Exemptions include Wahsatch Shooters Association Public Shooting Range in Fruit Heights, the Lions Club range above Bountiful, and the Centerville Small Arms Range.

The Davis County Commission has decided to let all shooters use the Wahsatch range for free during the next two months.

A very wet summer last year followed by a light winter has increased the amount of plant fuel that would burn in a fire.

Davis County Commissioner John Petroff said target shooters may not understand the impact that amount of fuel would have.

The commission’s decision isn’t about restricting freedom, he said, and he understands how important the Second Amendment is.

Davis County Commissioner Bret Millburn echoed Petroff’s sentiment:

“It’s not taking away or trying to infringe on someone’s Second Amendment right, it’s just being a little more prudent on when those firearms are being discharged.”

For more information check out July 12 edition of Davis Clipper.