News Release Archive

Closure of unsanctioned gun range at Newton Dam and Reservoir

Media Contact: Andrew Kirby, 385-497-3488, akirby@usbr.gov
Marlon Duke, 801-524-3774, mduke@usbr.gov

For Release: April 30, 2018

SMITHFIELD, UT - In consultation with the Town of Newton, Newton Water Users Association, Cache County Council, and Cache County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Reclamation has concluded that, due to ongoing safety risks and illegal dumping, the unsanctioned gun range at Newton Dam and Reservoir will be closed. The closure of the range will improve safety for both recreational visitors and the employees who maintain the dam, reservoir and associated facilities. It will also prevent illegal dumping in the area.

Beginning May 2, workers from Reclamation will place barriers and signage near former entrances to the range. Camping, boating, hiking and fishing at the reservoir will be unaffected and the public is invited and encouraged to make use of the facilities for these purposes.

Alternative shooting facilities are available. The Cache Valley Public Shooting Range, located approximately 15 miles south of Newton Dam and Reservoir, is staffed by a full-time range master and open to the public for all shooting activities.

The reservoir’s primary purpose is to provide irrigation water to lands surrounding the town of Newton.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.