STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB)  – The first reading of a shooting range ordinance was met with some suggestions from the public but in general, was viewed as a good start to establish a legal guideline through which shooting ranges can operate in the county.

The Meade County Commission, at its Nov. 8 regular meeting, approved the first reading and scheduled the second reading later in November.

The ordinance was drafted in response to plans by the South Dakota Game Fish & Parks (GF&P) to build a 400-acre public shooting range in southeast Meade County near the intersections of Elk Vale and Elk Creek Roads.

Those plans have been opposed by landowners, along with wildlife and environmental activists who say the disruption from what is being billed as the largest gun range in the United States far outweighs any benefits from such a facility.

Proponents believe the shooting range will provide services that will benefit the youngest sportsman to seasoned competitors, provide training facilities for law enforcement, as well as attract more business to the area.