Alabama’s sixth community archery park opened Aug. 24 in Heflin, featuring multiple ranges for youth and adults from 15-50 yards.

The Heflin archery park joins five others currently in operation including Athens, Cullman, Dothan, Demopolis and Decatur. Three more are under construction in Ozark, Lincoln and Tuscaloosa. These facilities are one component of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources effort to increase awareness and participation in the life skill of archery.

“We are pleased to be a partner in the development of the new Heflin Community Archery Park,” said N. Gunter Guy, Jr., ADCNR Commissioner. “This archery park is one of several in the state that provide a venue for both the beginner and the seasoned archer to improve their shooting skills.”

Heflin’s facility includes an eight-target adult range from 15 to 50 yards, an eight-target youth range of five to 20 yards, a four-target range of 10 to 40 yards with a 15-foot platform and a 10-target walking course. The park is located one block from Cleburne County High School at 1199 Evans Bridge Road.

The park will be open year-round during daylight hours for recreational shooting, competitive tournaments and outdoor educational programming. Day use of the park is free for those under 16 years of age or more than 65 years of age. Alabamians ages 16 to 64 must have a Hunting, Wildlife Management Area license, or Wildlife Heritage license in order to shoot. For non-residents, an annual Wildlife Management Area license or non-resident hunting license is required. Licenses are available from various local retailers or online at www.outdooralabama.com.

Heflin’s Parks and Recreation Department will offer archery classes at the park this fall. To register, contact Tammy Perry at tperry@cityofheflin.org.

The Heflin Community Archery Park was made possible by the following sponsors: ADCNR’s Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Archery Trade Association and the City of Heflin.