The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission accepted donations from local groups to support an archery range project and youth shooting sports during its regular meeting Oct. 6 in Oklahoma City.

During the meeting, Oklahoma Hunters and Anglers President Rick Nolan presented a $5,000 donation from the organization toward the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s new archery range at the Arcadia Conservation Education Area. With matching grants, the donation amounts to $50,000. Oklahoma Hunters and Anglers raised the funds through its popular Oklahoma Deer Hunting Expo, which broke an attendance record this summer.

Damon Springer, an ODWC senior communication and education specialist, said the archery complex is in the planning and engineering phase, which should be completed next spring.

“When we do get (the range) all set up and done, it’s going to be a state-of-the-art facility right here in the metro. … I know it’s going to be a very popular area and something we’re going to be proud of,” Springer said.

Commissioners also voted to accept a $1,000 donation from the Oklahoma Chapter of Quail Forever to support the Oklahoma Scholastic Shooting Sports Program.

OKSSSP is a trap-based shotgun program for 7th-12th grades that is focused on providing a fun, safe environment for participating in shooting sports. The program has about 1,600 participants statewide.

The Quail Forever donation will assist with purchasing clay targets, ammunition, and eye and ear protection for the program.

The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission is the eight-member governing board of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The Commission establishes state hunting and fishing regulations, sets policy for the Wildlife Department, and indirectly oversees all state fish and wildlife conservation activities. Commission members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Oklahoma Senate.

The next regular Wildlife Commission meeting is set for Dec. 8 at the John D. Groendyke Wildlife Conservation Building, 1801 N. Lincoln Blvd. in Oklahoma City.