Shooting Sports- Washington County 4-H

The program focuses on three shooting disciplines:

Shotgun
Long Rifle
Archery

In addition, youth participate in two educational areas:

Wildlife Identification
Safety Test and Trail

Total cost: $50 per year
Note: Participants must bring their own ammunition.

Youth are not required to participate in every discipline. Members may choose to focus on one area and develop proficiency there, or they may participate in multiple disciplines. While we encourage youth to explore all areas, we understand that schedules and interests vary. This program provides a strong starting point for those interested in shooting sports but unsure how far they would like to pursue it.

Participants are taught the fundamentals and finer points of each discipline. Through practice and dedication, they steadily build skill and confidence. Youth are encouraged to practice outside of club meetings as well — making this a fun, family-centered learning activity.

State competitions provide opportunities for members to showcase their abilities, develop new skills, and build friendships with other youth who share similar interests. Shooting sports require discipline, responsibility, and consistent practice. Along the way, youth discover that their level of success is determined by their effort and commitment — “If it is to be, it’s up to me!”

Important: Youth must have a Hunter Safety Blue Card to participate in the state shoot. An in-person Hunter Safety class and training will be offered in January 2027.

REMEMBER SAFETY FIRST!

If you are interested in this program and would like more information, contact Kaydn Ence (435)668-8743 or e-mail  k.ence@usu.edu 

All our shooting practices will be held at the Southern Utah Shooting Sports Park. 

Curriculum and Resources

4-H Shooting Sports Guide Book

• Rifle
• Shotgun
• Archery

What to Bring to Practice

• Your own eye and ear protection

• A minimum of 40 rounds of .22 ammunition

• 25 shotgun shells

• Your own bow (if you do not have one, please let us know in advance so we can provide one)

• Water — there are no drinking fountains at the venues

If you have questions or need equipment, contact the USU Extension Office at (435) 301-7740.

Resources

• National 4-H Shooting Sports
• Utah Division Of Wildlife

Hunter Safety Course – Online

UT Hunter Safety Online Course:

Hunter Education (Utah) — Hybrid Course

This is a hybrid course that combines online study with a required in-person field day.

Step 1: Complete the Online Course
Participants must complete the Utah-approved online Hunter Education course. Print all required chapter quizzes and bring proof of completion to the in-person session.

Step 2: Purchase Voucher
Before attending the field day, purchase a Hunter Education Registration Certificate (voucher) from any retailer that sells Utah hunting licenses.
Cost: $12.00

Step 3: Attend the In-Person Field Day
Students will complete the final exam and hands-on safety exercises. Upon successful completion, youth will receive their Utah Hunter Education certification (Blue Card).

A Utah Hunter Education certification (Blue Card) is required to participate in our shooting competitions.

In-person Location:
USU Extension - Washington County office
339 S. 5500 W.
Hurricane, UT 84737

---

4-H Shooting Sports Guidelines

Because others may be using the facility at the same time, your behavior and conduct must reflect respect for others, strict adherence to range safety rules, and the ethics of responsible hunters and shooters.

Expectations & Safety Rules

• We welcome any parent who would like to volunteer in the 4-H program. Please contact our office if you are interested.
• Parents are welcome at practices; however, we ask that you allow the youth the autonomy to learn and practice independently. Younger children must be closely supervised. Pets are not allowed at the range.
• Safety is always our highest priority. If safety rules are not followed, the youth will be asked to leave and may return when they are ready to follow all range safety rules. There will be one reminder. Because unsafe behavior puts lives at risk, rules must be strictly observed. A second violation will result in sitting out or leaving for the remainder of practice.
• Participant Responsibilities

• You are responsible for firearm safety at all times while using this facility. Learn and follow all posted range rules and always listen to the Range Safety Officer (RSO). If you do not have a copy of the posted rules, ask for one and become familiar with them.

• Maintain muzzle control at all times. Always point your firearm in a safe direction (downrange) and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.

• Handle your firearm only when instructed to do so and only when you are on the firing line.

• Apply the skills you learn to improve your discipline and shooting abilities.

• Maintain your shooting equipment in good working condition and understand how it functions.

• Bring your own shooting equipment, ammunition, water, and a ground cloth (for prone position) when necessary.

• Your progress is up to you. Each time your score improves or you master a skill, you build confidence and motivation to keep improving.
• This is meant to be an enjoyable program. If you choose to participate, do so with a positive attitude and respect for others. Please do not disrupt those who are there to learn and practice.
• Our Commitment to Safety
• This is a fun and rewarding program where safety is of utmost importance. There is no reason for anyone participating to behave unsafely. None of us would want to be responsible for someone getting hurt.
• The discipline, responsibility, and skills you develop here will stay with you throughout your life. Most importantly, you will gain confidence, build friendships, and enjoy a lifelong sport.
• 

  Shooting sports

  

  Archery

  

  Shooting sports

  

  Archery

  

  Archery

  

  Shooting sports

  

  

  Shooting sports

  

  Shooting sports