HOWELL – A new archery range on Bass Place appears to have already hit the bullseye with its targeted audience as dozens of bow and arrow enthusiasts showed up for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Howell officials worked with the United Bowhunters of New Jersey (“UBNJ”) to resurrect the site, which previously served as an archery range over a decade ago. One of the most remarkable aspects of the range is its accessibility to the public. Situated on Green Acres land, the range is free to everyone.
Deputy Mayor Evelyn O’Donnell said that John Erndl, UBNJ president, and his group approached the council about restoring the area. The idea immediately caught fire as a means of providing families with an exciting outdoor activity to enjoy together without leaving town.
After O’Donnell cut the ribbon, two UBNJ members shot off the first arrows onto the range with marked precision. Erndl said Robert Craemer and Matt Prefach had earned premier shots because of their contributions in setting up the target areas.
According to Howell Public Works Director Paul Novello, his department collaborated with UBNJ to make the range a reality. The Public Works Department performed extensive brush removal, graded the area, and put down wood chips. They also arranged for signage leading to and on the site itself. Novello admitted he’s excited about the range reopening as he is an avid bowhunter.
“Most of us just go out for the meat,” said Novello. “We’re conservationists when it comes to preserving wildlife and the land.”
The range is open from dawn to dusk to individuals of all ages and skill levels. However, those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Motor vehicles can drive through the brown gate at the Bass Place dead-end onto a dirt road leading to the range six-tenths of a mile from the entranceway.
Parking is available just beyond the sign that reads “Welcome to Howell Archery Range.” The range itself is immediately accessible to the right of the parking area.
Targets are staggered across the field, with one at 10 yards, two at 20 yards, one at 30 yards, one at 40 yards, one at 50 yards, and one at 60 yards. A complete set of rules is posted at the site and focuses on safety above all. For example, broadheads, which are hunting arrows, are prohibited because they will easily destroy the targets.
“United Bowhunters has had a great partnership in this with the Township of Howell,” said Erndl. “Archery is growing in leaps and bounds across the country, except in New Jersey.”
With a remarkable commitment to fostering a new generation of archers, the UBNJ offers a program called Scholastic Three Discipline Archery. The no-cost program takes aim at blending education and sportsmanship, which all come together with the thrill of hitting the target.
Certified teachers lead the program, which requires participants to have their own equipment. Some school districts also offer students an opportunity to compete in archery under the National Archery program. In addition, college scholarships are available for those who excel in the sport.
Township Manager Joe Clark estimated that the entire project came in under a $10,000 budget. He sees the initiative as opening up an additional opportunity for residents to step outside, engage in physical activity, and embrace an active lifestyle.
The range will maintained by both UBNJ and Howell as part of a collaborative agreement.
