After a long, winding road, the state-sponsored gun range in Meade County is open.
The Pete Lien and Sons range, despite some critics questioning its location and funding, earned support both from the state and the American gun lobby.
It was hardly a normal political ribbon cutting. With one shot from a Smith and Wessen .357 magnum rifle from about 50 yards, Gov. Larry Rhoden fired the range into existence.
The process was hard, particularly with neighboring landowners, but Rhoden said the impact of the facility will become apparent as it ages.
“We had a very long process and a long road to get the support and the sponsors, but the support was incredible," Rhoden said. "I think there was a recognition that this kind of facility – this was the perfect place to put a facility like this, in this region, and I think it’s going to have a bigger impact than we realize now.”
Already, shooting competitions are scheduled for the venue, including a large one sponsored by Glock.
The Black Hills already houses some gun-related businesses, including ammunition manufacturers. However, Rhoden said he envisions a “Second Amendment corridor” in western South Dakota.
“There are a number of businesses who have expressed interest in Western South Dakota," Rhoden said. "Sturgis and Rapid City, I’ve said in the past, has got the makings of a Napa Valley for gun manufacturers.”
That sentiment is echoed by Game Fish and Parks representatives, who say South Dakota’s famous bird hunting seasons already represent a major economic and tourism driver for communities, primarily in the eastern half of the state.
