Montana Shooting Range Grant Program

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Shooting Range Development & Enhancement Program offers grant funding to assist in the development and improvement of shooting ranges across Montana. Established in 1989 and funded by revenues from state hunting license sales, the program supports private shooting clubs, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and school districts in enhancing public access to safe and functional shooting facilities. The program reflects a longstanding commitment by FWP to bolster outdoor recreation and hunter education infrastructure statewide. Eligible applicants may include nonprofit shooting clubs and organizations, municipalities, and school districts, all of which must meet specific eligibility criteria. Nonprofits must be registered under Title 35, Chapter 2 of the Montana Code and demonstrate organizational structure, fiscal capacity, and open public access policies. All applicants are required to allow public use of their facilities and support hunter education activities. Proposals must include a 1:1 match in cash or in-kind contributions, such as volunteer labor, materials, or equipment. Notably, existing fixed assets may not count toward the matching requirement. Funds can be used for land acquisition, site development, infrastructure improvements, and fixed equipment purchases related to shooting range facilities. However, grants cannot be used for expendable supplies. Each proposed project is subject to prioritization based on factors such as public accessibility, safety enhancements, community needs, and the diversity of shooting disciplines supported. In cases of land acquisition, the department must be listed as having a reversionary interest in the property. The application period opens annually on November 15 and closes on February 1. Applicants must submit proposals through the online Montana WebGrants portal, and all application materials must include detailed project plans, budgets, site maps, proof of land ownership or lease, and a notarized resolution of approval from the governing board. Reimbursement for project costs will only occur after the department receives proper documentation, and billing must be completed by June 15 of the award year. Applications will be reviewed beginning July 1, and preliminary approvals will trigger environmental assessments and compliance reviews as required under state and federal regulations. Successful applicants must enter into a formal project agreement with FWP. The department conducts periodic inspections for up to ten years after project completion to ensure ongoing compliance. This grant operates on a recurring annual cycle, with the next application window scheduled to open on November 15, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing well in advance by reviewing the grant guidelines and ensuring readiness for timely submission.

Prioritize safety, accessibility, and support for multiple types of shooters; offer public use; ensure environmental compliance to avoid delays.