Firearms and Archery Range Recreation Program

The Firearms and Archery Range Recreation Program (FARR) is a state-administered funding initiative established by legislative action in 1990 to address identified gaps in safe and accessible shooting facilities. The program was created following an assessment of needs among law enforcement agencies, sports organizations, and the general public, which highlighted the importance of structured funding to support the acquisition, development, and renovation of firearm and archery ranges. Funding for the program is derived from a portion of concealed pistol license fees, reinforcing its connection to regulated firearm use and public safety priorities. The primary purpose of the program is to enhance recreational and training infrastructure related to firearms and archery. Grants are intended to support a wide range of capital projects, including land acquisition, facility construction, and upgrades to existing shooting ranges. Eligible uses include the development of safety features such as berms and fencing, installation of shooting structures, construction of classrooms and storage spaces, and improvements to accessibility and environmental compliance. The program also supports noise abatement and safety improvement projects, provided they meet specific containment and design standards. However, funding cannot be used for standalone planning, design-only efforts, routine operations, or maintenance activities. The program requires a cost-sharing component for most projects. A standard 50 percent match is required, though certain safety or noise abatement projects may qualify for a reduced 33 percent match. Additionally, at least 10 percent of the total project cost must come from non-state and non-federal sources. Matching contributions may include cash, bonds, donated labor, equipment, materials, land, or other grants. This structure ensures that applicants demonstrate financial commitment and leverage multiple funding sources to complete their projects. Eligibility is broad and includes a variety of public and nonprofit entities. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, law enforcement agencies, nonprofit shooting organizations, park and recreation districts, school districts, state agencies, and certain special purpose districts authorized to develop recreational facilities. Applicants must have the legal authority to develop, operate, and maintain such facilities. Funded sites must be open to the general public for a minimum of eight hours per month, ensuring public benefit and accessibility. Projects must also comply with recognized design standards from national associations and undergo professional evaluation as a condition of funding. The application process follows a structured, multi-step timeline. For the 2026 funding cycle, applications open on August 4, 2026, and are due by November 3, 2026. Following submission, projects undergo a technical review and completion phase, culminating in a formal evaluation and ranking process. Final funding decisions are expected by April 30, 2027. Applicants must complete required forms and certifications, including authorization resolutions, scope acknowledgments, and self-certifications. Supporting materials such as maps, design documents, and public meeting records are also required components of the application. Evaluation criteria are not explicitly detailed in the provided materials but are implied through the structured review and ranking process. Projects are assessed for technical completeness, compliance with safety and design standards, and alignment with program goals. Long-term commitment is a key requirement, as funded facilities must remain in use for at least ten years, or indefinitely in the case of land acquisition. This ensures sustained public benefit and accountability for state investment. The program operates on a biennial funding cycle, meaning grants are awarded every two years. This recurring structure allows applicants to plan for future submissions if unsuccessful in a given round. No direct contact information for a specific program officer is provided in the source material, and no explicit PDF guidelines link is included. Applicants are encouraged to consult available manuals and resources provided through the program’s official platform to ensure compliance with all requirements.

Ensure compliance with national safety design standards and secure required matching funds early