By Isaac Vick
Minnesota has a rich history of hunting, fishing and lots of other outdoor activities, allowing its residents to enjoy the beauty of the Minnesota wilderness. In the past decade a new outdoor sport has sprung up: youth trapshooting. For thousands of middle and high school students, participating in the Minnesota State High School Clay Target League is not just a pastime; it’s a way of life, fostering camaraderie, skill development, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the team experience. However, a proposed bill in the state Legislature, HF 3813/SF 3792, threatens to upend this cherished activity by banning lead-based ammunition – a move that could have far-reaching consequences for participants and the sport as a whole.
At the forefront of this debate is the question of safety. Proponents of the bill argue that lead exposure from ammunition poses a significant health risk to young shooters, citing concerns about lead poisoning and its detrimental effects on human health and the environment. State Senator Jennifer McEwen, a proponent of the bill, emphasizes the need to transition to non-toxic alternatives to safeguard the well-being of youth involved in shooting sports.
While prioritizing safety is paramount, opponents of the bill, including John Nelson, president of the USA Clay Target League, challenge the notion that youth trapshooting poses a public health threat. With over 50,000 students having participated in the league since 2001, zero accidents or injuries have been reported, they argue that singling out youth shooting sports is unjustified and overlooks the sport’s exemplary safety record.
Beyond safety concerns, the proposed ban on lead ammuni-tion raises practical challenges that could cripple youth trapshooting programs across the state. Jeff Radick, a trap shoot coach in Jordan, Minn., highlights the logistical hurdles of sourcing non-lead ammunition, citing its limited availability and exorbitant costs. For programs already grappling with financial constraints, the prospect of shouldering additional expenses for ammunition could render participation in the sport financially untenable.
Moreover, the ripple effects of the ban extend beyond the realm of youth trapshooting, impacting collegiate leagues, shooting ranges, and the broader outdoor community. The Minnesota College Athletic Conference and the USA College Clay Target League, which boast over 25 participating colleges, would face similar challenges in transitioning to non-toxic alternatives. Additionally, the decreased participation and potential closure of shooting ranges could diminish funding for conservation efforts, undermining the state’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
In light of these concerns, opponents of the bill advocate for a more nuanced approach – one that balances environmental sustainability with the economic viability of youth trapshooting. Radick emphasizes the need for legislation that is both environmentally responsible and economically sustainable, allowing stakeholders adequate time to adapt to the proposed changes. Rather than imposing a blanket ban on lead ammunition, he suggests exploring alternative measures that promote safety without unduly burdening participants and programs.
This proposed bill will not only impact current high school and middle school trap shooters but also generations of students for as long as it remains in effect. It imposes significant financial burdens, potentially doubling the already high costs of trap shooting for each year of participation. Moreover, the allocation of funds for clubs, which are hugely supported by their communities; will be affected, potentially depriving them of resources to cover essential expenses such as ammunition, club owned firearms, and a range to practice at.
In the ongoing debate surrounding the proposed bill to ban lead-based ammunition in youth trapshooting in Minnesota, it’s evident that the stakes are high for those involved in the sport, as not only will they be challenged financially, but with availability. While safety and environmental concerns are paramount, the potential ramifications of such legislation cannot be overlooked. The opportunities of Minnesotan youth are at stake and trap shooting clearly does not pose a public health concern, so how can you help. You can contact state legislators and local representatives via social media, or by mailing a letter, and spreading awareness of this bill and its impacts on youth shooting sports.
Isaac Vick is a student at Spring Grove High School, and one of 13 area students participating in the Journal Writing Project, now in its 25th year.
Leave a Reply