Due to critically dry fuels and increased wildfire danger, recreational target shooting on the Carson Ranger District is limited to 6 a.m. through 1 p.m. The restriction will remain in effect until Oct. 31 or until conditions change.
Shooting associated with licensed hunting activities is exempt from the order. The Forest Service’s emergency shooting order and map are available on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest’s Alerts webpage.
“This temporary restriction prohibits people who are not hunting from discharging firearms on the Carson Ranger District after 1 p.m.,” said District Ranger Matt Zumstein. “Fire danger peaks during the hottest part of the day, and the combination of dry fuels and afternoon winds dramatically increases the chance of an ignition. This order is necessary to protect the public and natural resources while conditions remain extreme.”
Violating the temporary shooting restriction is punishable by a fine up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail. In addition, anyone found responsible for starting a wildfire will be held civilly and criminally liable.
“The Forest will be bringing in extra officers to patrol and enforce the temporary shooting restrictions on the Carson Ranger District,” said Nick Laprade, Patrol Captain with Forest Service Law Enforcement & Investigations.”
After 1 p.m., Forest officials suggest gun enthusiasts use private or county designated shooting ranges while the restriction is in effect.
To report illegal shooting on the Carson Ranger District while the temporary shooting restriction is in place, contact either the Nevada Division of Wildlife 24-hour Dispatch Center at 775-688-1334 (U.S. Forest Law Enforcement) or the Ranger District Office at 775-882-2766 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Never approach anyone that may be illegally shooting. Instead, get details and descriptions of the incident and turn them over to an enforcement agency.
Helpful information to provide when reporting includes:
- The license plate number and description of the vehicle involved (make, model, year, and condition).
- Number of people involved, along with descriptions.
- Date and time of incident.
- Location and directions to the area and, if possible, GPS coordinates.
- Name and telephone number of the person reporting the incident.
- Provide any cell phone photos if available.
For additional information, please visit the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest website or participate in the conversation at Facebook and X.
