Proposed shooting range complex in Stephenville could attract military and law enforcement training

A proposed shooting range in Stephenville is another step closer to becoming a reality.
Clyde Russell, consultant and military advisor to the Town of Stephenville, has submitted an application document for the range complex on behalf of the town for environmental assessment.
The Town of Stephenville intends to construct and operate a range complex on the former landfill site, located approximately two kilometres northwest of Route 460 and approximately five kilometres north of the Port au Port highway.
The area of the proposed range will be approximately one square kilometre and consist of a 600-metre rifle range shooting field, a 50-metre pistol range shooting field, a security fence with access gate, parking areas and buildings.
Access to the site will be gained through improvements to an existing road and an all-terrain vehicle trail in the area will be rerouted.
The 20-page application document outlines the need for the Stephenville Range Complex to attract military, law enforcement and other government department training to the Stephenville area to help stimulate the local economy.
Stephenville Town Council has already adopted two amendments to its municipal plan to accommodate a safety area located in the town’s well head protected area.
The undertaking for the environmental assessment was registered on Aug. 5, 2019 with deadline for public comments on Sept. 11, 2019. The minister’s decision is due on Sept. 19, 2019.
The application document can be viewed at:  https://www.mae.gov.nl.ca/env_assessment/projects/Y2019/2043/Reg%202043%20Stephenville%20Range%20Complex%20reg%20doc.pdf.
Public comments may be forwarded to: [email protected].