John Lentz Hunter Education Complex closed for renovations

The complex should open next fall

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission plans to begin renovations to the John Lentz Hunter Education Complex on Jan. 6, 2020, which will render the complex closed to the public with plans to reopen next fall.

Following the renovations, the complex will feature three rifle and pistol ranges (25 yard, 50 yard and 100 yard) with 10 shooting stations each. All three ranges will be equipped with baffles and covered shooting positions to ensure optimal safety for all users. Additionally, the complex will feature a static archery range and tower, a redesigned five-stand shotgun field, two combination skeet/trap fields and a 3D archery course.

The renovations aim to create a safer range environment and a more accessible facility for people with disabilities to comfortably practice their favorite shooting sport. Improvements to the range will be conducted by Smith & Allen General Contractors located in Asheboro. The Commission will fund the renovations using reserves from the Wildlife Restoration Program and the Wildlife Endowment Fund.

The John Lentz Hunter Education Center is located at 2030 Gibson Mill Rd. in Ellerbe, N.C. For more information on the Commission’s shooting range program, visit ncwildlife.org/shootingranges.