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About The Blue Mountain eagle. (John Day, Or.) 1972-current | View Entire Issue (March 25, 2015)
HUNTING WINNIE BROWNING PHOTO Grant County is a popular spot for bow and rifle hunters, with eight of the northeastern big game units located either partially or fully within its borders. A t certain times, the Phillip Schneider Wildlife Area is also a hunting setting. Controlled hunting seasons are staggered throughout the year. Tag drawings determine when and where hunters may hunt. There are controlled seasons for bighorn sheep, Rocky Mountain goat, black bear, pronghorn ante- lope, deer and elk. There are also general seasons for deer or elk bow hunting, and black bear and cougar hunts. Bird hunters take part in pursuit of upland game birds, including grouse, chukar, California and mountain quail, and migratory game birds, such as duck and geese. For more information: See the Oregon Big Game and Game Bird regulations booklets, or view them at www.dfw.state.or.us SHOOTING RANGES Enjoy target shooting? Need a place to safely sight in your rifle? Enjoy competitive shooting events? Various shooting events take place throughout the year. The ranges also offer by-permission use of their facilities. SENECA TRAP RANGE At the south end of Seneca, turn west on Camp Creek Road a short distance. Facility includes two trap ranges and one skeet range, a 100-yard small arms range. Restroom facilities are on site. Almost every Sunday beginning at 10 a.m., all are welcome to join in. It’s $4 for 25 bird shoots, and $2 for 10 practice bird shoots. The pot is split, depending on what is taken in. Weather permitting, barbecues are fired up; otherwise, finger foods are brought. For more information: Call Dean Nodine, 541-575-1918. BEAR CREEK RIFLE RANGE Located .9 mile north of Highway 26, 10 miles east of John Day, between John Day and Prairie City. This site features a covered, eight-bay firing line and one of the best rifle ranges in the west. The 1,000-yard range has become popular with many shooting enthusiasts, including black powder fans. Set in a small valley, with targets scattered throughout, the range also accommodates pistol shooters. An archery range is planned. The site features year-round portable toilets. A scorekeeper’s booth was completed in spring 2011, built in an old-west style with a false front. Those using the course at other times must be with a trained safety officer who is a member. For more information on Bear Creek Rifle Range: Call president Don Mooney, 541-575-0064. Heading up the black powder group is Jim Sproul, who can be reached at 541-620-0231. For more on the shotgun enthusiasts group: Call Carroll Walton, 541-820-4624. 28 | OFFICIAL GRANT COUNTY VISITOR GUIDE 2015 | MyEagleNews.com