THE ELK RIVER SPORTSMAN S CLUB MEMBERS MANUAL

Transcription

1 THE ELK RIVER SPORTSMAN S CLUB MEMBERS MANUAL This book contains information about the club, its facilities and their proper use, and the privileges and responsibilities of membership. Included in this manual are the constitutional by-laws of the club and the Elk River City Code, Chapter 50, Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions; Division 2 Dangerous Weapons. ORGANIZATION The Elk River Sportsman s Club is incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota as a nonprofit organization. The club has been in operation since January 2, 1946, when it was chartered as the St Louis Park Sportsman s Club. In 1962, the club s range was in the path of the I-35W construction, so the current club property acres was purchased for $25 per acre. The club was re-chartered October 21, The name was changed to Elk River Sportsmans Club on August 17, 1999, and to Elk River Sportsman s Club in The club functions under the provisions of its constitution and by-laws. All business matters are handled by a Board of Directors, which meets monthly or as required by circumstances. The Board establishes the frequency and location of general membership meetings, usually 7 PM on the third Tuesday of each month. During the months of April through October, meetings are held in the clubhouse at the range. November through March meetings are held at a location determined by the Board. MEMBERSHIP Membership is open to anyone over 18 years of age. A club member in good standing who has donated 8 hours of work to the club during the previous year may sponsor one candidate per year for membership. An application for membership must be completed, and both the applicant and sponsor must attend a meeting of the Board of Directors, which will consider all applications. Initial membership cost is the annual dues plus an initiation fee. Thereafter, the cost is the annual dues as established by club by-laws. Dues for the coming year become payable on December 1st, and if not paid by the last day of December the member is dropped from the membership rolls. The club roster is for internal club activity use only and will not be distributed for any other purpose. Since 2010, all new members are required to be a member of the NRA. As a condition of renewal, those members who joined in 2010 and thereafter must provide proof that their NRA membership is current, or they must renew their NRA membership as part of their ERSC membership renewal.

2 The club is non-partisan and does not endorse any political party or candidate. However, the club urges all of its members to review the qualifications and records of all the candidates and vote, keeping in mind the best interests of our club and the shooting and hunting sports. Each year, members have the privilege and responsibility of electing, or being elected to, a position as a club officer or board member. Candidates for office are selected by a nominating committee and/or nominations from the membership. All Annual, Senior and Honorary Life members are eligible to hold office. The term of office is for one year, but an officer may serve any number of terms. Club officers consist of the President, Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Corresponding Secretary, Membership Secretary, Treasurer, Finance Officer, Research Officer, Conservation Officer, two Sergeants at Arms, ten members of the Board of Directors, and an Activity Chair for each of the following activities: Archery, Yard, 100 Yard, High Power/KD, Pistol, Smallbore, Shotgun, Firearms Safety, Camping, and Food Services. The Board of Directors consists of all of the above, plus a Newsletter Editor appointed by the Board of Directors. FAMILY PARTICIPATION The Elk River Sportsman s Club welcomes and encourages the participation of family members in the club activities and use of the range facilities. These use privileges are extended to your spouse and members of your family under the age of 18, but they must accompany you at all times. You are directly responsible for their actions while on club property. Children are not allowed within the club range areas without adult supervision. The spouse of a member may become an Associate member, and juvenile dependents may become Junior members, as outlined in Article III, Section (E) of the constitution. GUEST PRIVILEGES The number of guests a member may bring to use the club facilities is limited to three non-family guests. As defined in the previous section, only your spouse and your children under 18 are considered family. Additional guests beyond the limit of three will require a Range Use Request, submitted to and approved by the Board of Directors. As their host member, you will act as a Safety Officer, and you may not shoot while your guests are actively shooting. You may demonstrate proper safety and shooting technique, or take turns shooting. Members have range use priority over guests, including your family members, except during competitions or other club-sponsored events. 2

3 RANGE USE REQUEST PROCEDURE Classes require a Range Use Request, whether they are formal (NRA, DNR Firearms Safety, 4H, or similar) or informal. Range Use Request forms are available at the clubhouse or on the club website, and may be submitted by mail or to the Corresponding Secretary. Requests for classes require an appearance before the Board at a Board or Member meeting. Classes require knowledgeable instructors, as demonstrated by certification through the MN DNR, NRA, or other organization, and/or proven experience teaching firearms safety and use. Instructors must have their own liability insurance, or have insurance through their sponsoring organization (DNR, 4H, etc.). Proof of insurance is required before any class will be approved. You are responsible for the conduct and actions of your guests/students, and close supervision of each guest is required. You must accompany them at all times. Do not ask or expect other club members to assume responsibility for your guests! GENERAL RANGE RULES THE KEY WORD IS SAFETY The club has developed rules of conduct and procedures for range use to promote the safety of our members, guests, and the residents of the properties surrounding our property. These rules are enforced, and it is mandatory that they be observed at all times by every person who uses the range. These rules are in addition to the basic safety rules for handling firearms and ammunition (The Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety). {Specific rules for the various ranges follow this section} 1. Firing shall be limited to prepared ranges only, with their adequate impact backstops. Only the target holders provided for that range shall be used. Paper targets only, with the targets mounted in the center of the target holder to prevent damage to the wooden structure supporting the target holders. When putting targets on target holders, be certain that the targets are at a height that will assure bullet impact in the berms from whatever shooting position is being used. Firing at objects on the ground or at targets mounted in such a manner that bullets may strike the ground and ricochet is prohibited and shall not be condoned for any reason. Firing at aerial targets with handguns or rifles is prohibited on all range property. 2. Recognizing that modern firearms are often hard to single-round load, magazines may be loaded with multiple rounds. Flag the chamber and detach the magazine before leaving the bench or removing the firearm from the bench. Leaving a loaded firearm unattended will be considered a serious safety violation. 3

4 3. Rapid firing is not allowed on the 25/50 yard, 100 yard or KD ranges. Rapid firing is defined by the NRA as less than 2 seconds between rounds. The function-testing / test firing of firearms shall be done only on the Pistol range, from 5 yards, using the three far right-hand targets only. 4. Restrict your firing to the range designed for that purpose: Pistol Range Pistols and revolvers, all calibers Rimfire rifles and airguns Carbines and rifles (except.50 BMG) Police/self-defense shotguns, with shot or slugs (targets only) 25 and 50 Yard Range Pistols and revolvers, all calibers.22 and other rimfire rifles Centerfire rifles (except.50 BMG) Black powder pistols and rifles Shotgun, slugs only 100 Yard Range Hunting caliber pistols/revolvers Centerfire rifles (except.50 BMG) Rimfire rifles Black powder rifles Shotgun, slugs only Smallbore Range.22 and other rimfire rifles Airguns Shotgun Ranges Shotguns with #7 ½ shot and smaller only, no slugs. Known Distance Range (KD) Firearms appropriate for long-range shooting and not prohibited by KD range rules (i.e., pistols and shotguns). Rimfire rifles are prohibited except for organized club events. The firing of.50 BMG rifles requires certification, and they are allowed only on the KD range (see KD rule 8). 5. Hunting on club property is prohibited, except with the approval of the Board of Directors. 6. Members shall have priority over guests for use of the range facilities, except for competitions or other club events. 7. Lock combinations are available to members only for access to our facilities. Furnishing the lock combination to non-members is prohibited unless approved by club officers for a specific reason. 8. The entrance gate is operated by a member s proximity card, and is normally closed. During an organized shoot or activity that is open to both members 4

5 and non-members, the gate may be locked open by the Activity Chair or event sponsor in charge, and he or she shall be responsible to clear out any non-members after the event and close the gate. 9. Shooting is prohibited before 8:00 A.M., Monday through Saturday, and before 9:00 A.M. on Sunday. No shooting is allowed after sunset. Sunset tables are posted at each range. By special request and with the approval of club Officers, night shooting for the training and qualification of law enforcement officers has been approved as a controlled scheduled public service. We ask members to use discretion in their interpretation of sunset, as there are times when light conditions are inadequate for shooting even before official sunset times. 10. The consumption of alcoholic beverages on club property, or the use of firearms while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, is prohibited. Combining alcohol or drugs with the use of firearms is a violation of our safety practices. 11. When any person is forward of the firing line at any point on the Smallbore, 25/50-yd, 100-yd and Pistol ranges, the range will be closed and all firearms unloaded and actions left open with a chamber flag inserted, and the shooters not down range are to step away from the benches and not handle any firearms. The range shall not be reopened until a positive check has been made for any person who may still be down range. Warning beacons have been installed at the 100-yard and 25/50-yard ranges to alert shooters that the range is closed, and members are required to use them. 12. Firearms are to remain unloaded at all times except when on the firing line and ready to fire. At all other times, actions are to remain open and the firearms unloaded, or cased and stowed for transportation. As a further safety measure, the use of chamber flags (ECI s) is required at all ranges, and flags are available at most ranges free of charge. 13. Any member seeing an unsafe situation or violation of range procedure shall immediately call a cease-fire, and that range will be closed until the condition is corrected. 14. Members must clean the range area after use, and take all targets and other trash with them. 15. When you become a member of the Elk River Sportsman s Club, or are granted range use privileges, you agree to abide by all the club's rules and policies as a condition of membership and will assist the club as a whole in policing actions on the range. What you do with a firearm directly affects each and every member. 16. Metal targets are banned on all ranges, though reactive plastic shoot through targets have been approved for use on certain ranges or under 5

6 controlled conditions. When new target materials are developed, the Board will consider whether they can be safely used on our range. 17. All-terrain vehicles, four-wheel drive vehicles, dirt bikes and snowmobiles are prohibited except on the established roads or for maintenance of the range. 18. Horseback riding on any part of the range property is prohibited. Exceptions to this rule may be granted for training purposes provided the Board of Directors approves a written request. 19. Full-auto and bump firing is prohibited on all ranges. 20. The Elk River Sportsman s Club operates the range under the terms and understanding of our Range Usage permit as issued by the City of Elk River. We also comply with all the provisions of the Elk River, Minnesota City Code; Chapter 50, Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions; Division 2, Dangerous Weapons. To understand the terms of our Range Usage Permit, we must refer to those provisions in the Elk River City Code, specifically, Section , paragraph (c), sub paragraph (3) and Section This paragraph outlines the responsibility of the club and its members to control and confine the projectiles we fire to the range property. This will help ensure the safety of our members and neighbors. Violations of this ordinance could decide whether or not the club can continue as a shooting facility. 21. Our range is bordered on all four sides by residential structures. Members must be aware that any ricochets or stray bullets landing in those areas, or heard by nearby residents, may be a deciding factor as to how long we can continue to operate our range. Any intentional violation of safety rules is considered sufficient reason for the removal of a member from club property. Disregard for the established rules may be sufficient cause for the Board of Directors to start disciplinary action and could result in expulsion from the club under the provisions of the constitution and by-laws. KNOWN DISTANCE (KD) RANGE 1. Instruction in the safe use of the KD Range is required. This includes instruction on pit operations (target carriers and target repair, etc.) in addition to how to safely run the firing line. Contact the KD Chair to find out when the next training session may be offered, or to arrange for individual/small group training. 2. The 100 and 200 yard ranges are available for use by any member with a known zero. Members may use these ranges any time the range is free. 6 The 300 and 400 yard ranges require the member to be certified as having the skills and knowledge to use these longer ranges safely. This KD Range Long Distance Certification can be accomplished in two ways:

7 a. Possession of a current NRA Mid-Range or Long Range classification card b. Successful completion of a KD Certification class and range/shooting test A list of all KD Range Long Distance Certified members will be kept in the clubhouse for verification purposes by the Range Attendants. Members may bring guests to use the KD Range, but the member must insure that their guests are competent to use the range. 3. Firing from the 600 yard line of the KD range is limited to only members who hold a NRA classification card in Mid-Range or Long Range shooting. Firing from the 600 yard line also requires permission from the KD chair or assistant. Members without an NRA classification and all guests are only allowed to shoot from 600 yards during organized club events. A minimum of three people are required to shoot from 600 yards: Shooter, spotter with scope, and a scorer in the pits. At a minimum, at least one of the three or more participants must hold an NRA classification of Expert or higher. The Expert ranked person will act as the spotter/coach for the other shooters. Communication between the firing line and the pits is required (phone or walkie-talkie). Rifles must have a known zero. All shooting must be from the prone position. Hunting rifles are allowed but only to confirm accuracy at this distance, not for extended strings of fire. 4. It is strongly recommended that at least one additional person be present to act as an observer and/or staff the pits when firing from the 100, 200, 300 or 400-yd lines of the KD Range. Communication between the firing line and the pit is strongly recommended when shooting on the KD range (cell phone or two-way radio). 5. All shooters, pit personnel and spectators must wear hearing protection and safety glasses while firing is in progress. A billed hat is also recommended. 6. No firing is permitted at any time while personnel are forward of the firing line and are not in the pit. Chamber flags should be used, or firearms cased, during these times. 7. The firing of handguns or shotguns on the KD range is prohibited. Rimfire rifles are prohibited except during special club events. 8. The firing of.50 BMG rifles is limited to club members, on the KD Range only. Certification is necessary for shooting the.50 BMG on the ERSC range. Contact the KD/High Power Activity Chair or.50 BMG Coordinator for details. 9. Only targets provided on the target frames or those consistent with club rules and attached to the target frames are allowed. Target frames are available in the pit building. Targets must be placed in the target carriers and shooters must fire at the target carriers that correspond to their shooting position on the firing line. 7

8 10. The target frames and range flags must be returned to the pit building when shooting is complete. 11. Vehicles are not to be driven on the irrigated greens on the firing line. Vehicles may approach these areas for loading and unloading. 12. Users of the KD Range and Practice Trap (Crazy Quail) Range must cooperate and coordinate their activities. Range use is on a first-come/firstserved basis, with scheduled events taking precedence. Users of these ranges must identify their presence by changing the sign located at the entrance to these ranges. The 100 or 200 yard lines of the KD range and the Sporting Clays range may be operated simultaneously. 8 The 300, 400 or 600 yard lines of the KD range and the Sporting Clays range may not be operated simultaneously. 13. There is a sign at the entrance to the road leading to the KD target pit. This sign is 4x4 feet and is hinged in the center. When in the upright and hooked position, it reads KD RANGE. When unhooked and lowered it reads KD RANGE ACTIVE ROAD CLOSED AT FIRING LINE. There are additional signs on the back of the larger sign, which read 100 YARDS, 200 YARDS, 300 YARDS, 600 YARDS, MATCH TODAY and SHOOTING AT CRAZY QUAIL. Hang one of these signboards below the hinged KD sign, depending on the firing line you are using. There are also chains to close the pit road at the firing line so no one will drive to the pit while firing is in progress. All members are expected to use these chains. The chains and signs are intended to increase the SAFETY of members and visitors by alerting them to the fact that shooting is in progress on the KD Range, and use of the access road to the pits is restricted to those using the range. Please use these signs any time you are shooting on the KD Range or the Practice Trap/Crazy Quail range. SHOTGUN TRAP AND SKEET RANGES 1. Only one shell in the gun at a time, except when shooting doubles 2. All guns must be empty and actions open when moving from station to station 3. All guns must be unloaded with actions open at all times except on the firing line or in a gun rack 4. Guns are to be pointed downrange at all times 5. No alcoholic beverages are allowed 6. Only shooters are allowed on all fields. Coaches are allowed with the permission of the Scorekeeper. 7. Only shotguns with shot shells on all fields 8. Only target loads are allowed, 7 ½ shot size and smaller

9 9. No hand traps on #1 and #2 trap fields 10. Eye and ear protection are required These rules also apply at the Practice Trap / Crazy Quail range. See also: KD Rules 16 and 17. SMALLBORE RANGE 1. It is the responsibility of each individual shooter that their bullets impact the berm area. 2. The Smallbore Range is limited to rimfire only, both.17 and.22 calibers, and airguns. a. There are 20 firing points on the shooting line. Targets can be placed in pre-established 25 and 50-yard positions, with permanent provisions at 100 yards All target holders for the general public use will be hanging on the target hangers at the 25 yd, 50 yd & 100 yd target lines. b. Along with separate target holders for the different distance locations, there are also different targets for Benchrest, Standing/Offhand, & Sitting or prone shooting. 3. Besides the paper target carriers, there are positions for reactive targets at 25 yards and at 40, 60, 77 and 100 meters. 4. No firing at objects on the ground, and paper targets only The only exception being the plastic reactive targets. No balloons, cans, plastic, glass or other materials. 5. Firearms are to remain unloaded, with the action open and a chamber flag inserted, until you are ready to fire. Chamber flags are available on the back side of the bulletin board. 6. Remain behind the firing line until all shooting has stopped and actions are open and flagged. 7. Before going downrange, be certain all firearms are unloaded and flagged. 8. Eye and ear protection is required. 9. All DNR firearms training classes held at the Smallbore range should fire from the marked distance of 50 feet, with the targets in the pipes locates at 100 yards. a. The target holders for all DNR firearms classes are hanging in the old equipment storage shed. b. The target holders in the new target shed are not to be used by the DNR firearms training classes. Once a Range Use Request for the Small Bore range is approved, the person making the request should contact the Small Bore Activity Chair to discuss the requested activity and any additional needs. 9

10 100-YARD BENCHREST RANGE 1. Shoot at the target directly in front of your bench. Benches and targets are numbered to insure you are firing at the correct target. 2. Targets should be placed in the center of the target frame (NRArecommended height) for safety. 3. No firing at objects on the ground, and paper targets only No balloons, cans, plastic, glass, or other materials. 4. Eye and ear protection is required. 5. Firearms are to remain unloaded, with the action open and a chamber flag inserted, until you are ready to fire. 6. You may shoot from the bench, or from standing, kneeling or sitting. No prone shooting. 7. Target changes: Remain behind the firing line until all shooting has stopped. Turn on the warning lights and be certain all firearms are unloaded and flagged before going down-range. Chamber flags are available from dispensers on the line or in the trailer adjacent to the range. Step away from the benches until the range and do not handle any firearms. Be sure that everyone has returned to the firing line before turning off the warning lights and loading any firearms. 8. The 100-yard range is primarily for rifles, but shotguns with slugs, black powder firearms and hunting-caliber center-fire pistols may be fired on this range. (No.50 BMG) 9. Rimfire rifles are permitted on the 100-yard range. However, if space on the range is limited, rimfire shooters are required to yield their shooting position to center-fire shooters. 10. No fully automatic firearms may be fired in full-auto mode on this or any other range. 11. It is recommended that you sight in at the 25/50 range first, then move to this range so you can be reasonably sure you are able to hit paper at this distance. 25/50-YARD BENCHREST RANGE This range operates very much like the 100-yard range: 1. Activate the warning lights to close the range for target changes. All firearms are to be unloaded, with the action open and a chamber flag inserted, and shooters are to step away from the benches and not handle any firearms while others are downrange. You must be absolutely certain that all users have returned to the firing line before turning off the warning lights and handling or loading firearms. 2. Eye and ear protection are required. 10

11 3. Targets should be centered on the target holders for safety (as per NRA recommendations). Paper targets only, and no firing at objects on the ground. 4. No shooting from prone, sitting or kneeling on the 25/50 Benchrest or standing positions only. 5. Any firearm may be fired on the 25/50 except for shot/buckshot (slugs are acceptable) or.50 BMG. The 25/50 is ideal for sighting in a telescopic sight or other optical sight Begin at 25 yards, and then confirm the settings at 50. Then confirm at 100-yards before moving to the KD Range. PISTOL RANGE This is the only range where controlled rapid firing is allowed as practice for competition or self-defense, or to function-test firearms. Rapid firing is defined as less than 2 seconds between rounds. Function testing / test firing for proper operation of any firearm is limited to the 5 yard line of the pistol range, using the three far-right target backers. 1. The pistol range is unlike any other range because shooters may fire from any distance, from 0 to 25 yards. The shooter closest to the targets determines where the firing line is If someone is shooting at 9 yards, then the firing line is at 9 yards. Do not shoot from any position behind other shooters, even if they are on the far end of the range. If you want to shoot from a position closer to or further from the targets, talk to the other shooters and work it out. 2. The pistol range is normally operated as a hot range All guns will be considered loaded at all times, unless they are in a closed case or a chamber flag is inserted. For this reason 3. Do not handle guns if anyone is downrange. You can load magazines, but pistols should be holstered or in a closed case when not in use. You may holster a pistol with the action open, then take it downrange to the firing line to load and join other shooters. 4. Use of chamber flags is required to indicate the safe condition of guns at the benches. Long guns placed on the gun racks will be presumed to be safe, but flags in the muzzle or chamber are still desirable. 5. Hearing and eye protection are required. 6. Targets should be used for self-defense shotgun loads or slugs. 7. You can use multiple target holders if there are few shooters on the range. Just be sure all your shots will impact the targets, and share the range if others want to shoot. 8. Take your targets home with you. The same goes for empty ammo boxes and other trash. 9. Paper targets only. No balloons, cans, glass, or plastic, or metal targets. 11

12 10. There is a safe area (clearing barrel) at the left end of the benches The muzzle of a firearm can be pointed into this barrel for loading or unloading, or while clearing a jam. You can also load/unload/clear on the firing line, but the safe area is available if you do not want to disturb others on the range. 11. The lights on the firing line are for use by law enforcement agencies. ARCHERY Practice points only No broadheads or other hunting tips. All bow types are allowed, including longbow, compound, crossbow, etc. CAMPING A trailer/tent camping area directly west of the clubhouse is available for member use, or by participants in club meets and events. Electric power and water hook-ups are available for their convenience. There is no waste dump station. An open area for camping is located near the Pistol range, as well as a series of smaller primitive camping areas with fire rings. These areas have no toilets or source of water. Firewood is available in the area, and open fires are permitted during safe outdoor burning periods, but must conform to open fire and other burning rules as established for national forest areas and Elk River burning ordinances. Our range is located in the Sherburne Forest Control Area. Camping is permitted only in designated camping areas unless special permission is granted by the Camping Chair, or approved by the Board of Directors if time permits. Use of the clubhouse or other structures for camping is prohibited unless approved by the Camping Chair or Board of Directors, or for immediate protection from storms or other dangerous conditions. 1. Campfires must be confined to the approved fire rings. 2. No cutting of live wood for campfires. Campers are encouraged to use fallen dead wood from the surrounding area. 3. All trash must be removed when you leave. 4. Children must be supervised at all times and may not roam the property without supervision. 5. Pets must be under control at all times, and pet waste must be cleaned up. 6. A quiet time will be observed after 10 PM so as not to disturb the neighbors. 7. No discharge of firearms is allowed in the campground areas at any time. 8. Camping units must be used at least 50% of the time on a per-week basis or removed from the property. 12

13 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE The development of the range is a result of the efforts of the officers and members. The financial structure of the club does not permit hiring outside help, except in special circumstances, nor does it permit the purchase of all the many materials needed for range construction and maintenance. For this reason, all members are strongly encouraged to donate a minimum of eight hours of work to club projects and activities each year. We have such a wide variety of activities and work details that every member is able to help. Work details are announced well in advance in the club newsletter. Also, we frequently solicit donations of construction materials, which we use in improving and expanding our facilities, as well as for routine maintenance. We try to schedule work details for spring and fall to leave the prime summer period free for shooting activities. Spring Work Day is the first Saturday in May Fall Work Day is the first Saturday after Labor Day. GATES, LOCKS AND SECURITY Our range is secured by two locked gates at the entrance road, and locks secure all buildings in an effort to control theft and vandalism. The main gate is electric, and requires use of a proximity card to enter or exit. A second Special Event Gate is normally locked, and used only by maintenance and work parties, or to promote a smoother traffic flow or access by non-members during special events. The clubhouse is also accessed by use of the proximity card issued to each member. The proximity card will be for the use of the member for as long as his/her membership is active, and is to be returned if their membership is terminated or they fail to renew. A $20 lost card fee will be imposed to cover costs to the club. A damaged card will be replaced at a lesser cost. The member s proximity card will be de-activated if dues are not paid by the established deadline for renewal, or if the member violates club rules or policies, pending review by the Board of Directors. Other gates and buildings are secured by a four-digit combination lock. The combination for these locks is for member use only, and a new combination will be selected for each calendar year. The member s proximity card, and the combination to any locks, are for member use only, and shall not be shared with any non-member, except with a club Officer s approval. The spouse and children of the member are considered to be non-members in regard to the proximity card and combination locks. The exception to this rule is if the spouse becomes an Associate member. See the section FAMILY PARTICIPATION. Any member who loans his or her card to a non-member may be subject to penalties, including have their membership in the club revoked. 13

14 Members are not to allow others through the gate unless they know them personally. The on-duty Range Attendant will handle members who do not have their member or proximity card with them, according to established procedures. There are a number of small gates around the fence line perimeter of the range that are used to get equipment on the outside of the fence for maintenance purposes. These gates are secured with a keyed lock. The keys for these locks are available from several of the club officers and are provided to the fence line maintenance crews. Other buildings have locks that are controlled by the officers of the club assigned these responsibilities. Members and their guests are required to stop at the clubhouse on arrival and before leaving the range to enter their names, time of arrival/departure, ranges used, lead abatement information, and other information as may be deemed necessary for safety and security, to track use of the club facilities or for research or statistical purposes. This information is for internal club use only. Members will display a membership card, supplied by the club, to show their status as a current member while on the property, though work parties are excused from this requirement for safety reasons. All members are encouraged to approach any person unknown to them who is not wearing or displaying their club ID, to determine whether they are a member, guest or non-member. NEWSLETTER The Board of Directors, through its Editor, publishes a club newsletter, "WOODS, WATERS, WILDLIFE," which is mailed or sent electronically to all members, usually monthly. Notice of planned events, policy changes, or any other information relative to the operation of the club is published. Members may use the newsletter to advertise items they want to buy, sell or trade without charge, as long as they are related to club activities. The club web site ( also features a current calendar of events, buy/sell/trade ads, a copy of the current newsletter, a map to the range, membership applications, Range Use Request forms, and other features. DIRECTIONS TO THE CLUB A map to the range is available on the Club web site 14

15 CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS ARTICLE I The name of this organization, a Minnesota Corporation, shall be THE ELK RIVER SPORTSMAN S CLUB. ARTICLE II The purpose of this club shall be to promote and take part in the conservation of the forests, water, and wildlife of the State of Minnesota, and of the United States of America. In addition, the club shall encourage its members and the citizens of the community in organized archery, rifle, shotgun, and pistol shooting and firearms safety, and shall strive to prevent passage of laws and regulations that would abridge the constitutionally guaranteed rights of the American citizen to keep and bear arms. ARTICLE III (A) Any person over the age of 18 who subscribes to the avowed purposes of this club shall be eligible for membership. (B) All applications for membership shall be submitted for approval to the Board of Directors of this organization. (C) The maximum number of memberships shall be determined by the Board of Directors but shall not exceed 900. The number of memberships may be increased by the Board of Directors not more than 50 memberships per year. The maximum number of members includes all paying memberships. This does not include Honorary Life and Associate memberships. (D) The following classes of membership shall exist in the club, subject to all other membership provisions: (1) ANNUAL - A member who pays such annual dues as may be determined by the Board of Directors and approved by the general membership. An Annual member shall enjoy all the rights and privileges of the club. (2) SENIOR Persons age 65 or over may chose a Senior membership, which differs from an Annual membership in that the 8-hour work donation is entirely voluntary. Dues for Senior members shall be $50.00 less than for Annual members, but they may not receive any discount for a work donation. (3) HONORARY LIFE - An Annual or Senior member nominated for such title by the Board of Directors and elected thereto by the general membership at a regularly scheduled general membership meeting in recognition of outstanding service to the club. Nominations for Honorary Life membership shall be made to a club officer, and shall be 15

16 16 approved by the Board of Directors, prior to presentation to the general membership. Annual dues, special dues, and special assessments shall not be required of an Honorary Life member. Not more than three (3) Annual or Senior members shall be elected as Honorary Life members in any one calendar year. The maximum number of Honorary Life members at any one time shall not exceed 15. An Honorary Life member shall enjoy all the rights and privileges of the club. (4) ASSOCIATE - An honorary title for a person who is granted a membership in the club and is so elected thereto by the Board of Directors, intended primarily for the spouse of a member. An Associate member shall be given only those rights and privileges as may be determined by the Board of Directors, which may vary, with the exception that he or she shall be a non-voting member, and shall not have the right to speak on the floor of the general membership or Board of Directors meetings. Rights and privileges granted to an Associate member shall be made part of the individual membership card issued. Any member in good standing may nominate a person for Associate membership. (5) JUNIOR - Any person under the age of 18 years who is a legal dependent of an Annual, Senior or Honorary Life member and/or who pays annually such dues as may be determined by the Board of Directors. A Junior member shall enjoy all the rights and privileges of the club with the exception that he or she shall be a non-voting member and shall have no range privileges unless accompanied by or supervised by an Annual, Senior or Honorary Life member in good standing. A Junior member shall be issued a membership card but not a proximity card. ARTICLE IV (A) All club members shall be strongly encouraged to be members of the National Rifle Association. Since 2009, NRA membership has been required for all new members. Notice of any proposed increase in dues shall be in accordance with ARTICLE X of the club's constitution. Annual member dues, new member initiation fees or other fees or charges for membership (plus applicable sales tax) shall be determined by the Board of Directors and approved by the membership. In addition to the annual dues, each member is encouraged to donate a minimum of eight hours of work to club activities each calendar year. A member who has donated eight hours of work devoted to benefit of the club, as recorded by the Membership Secretary (See Article IV, Section E), shall receive a $50.00 credit for the following year. A work donation for the

17 previous year is required to sponsor a new candidate for membership or hold elective office. Senior members are not eligible for a work discount. (B) In addition to the optional work credit described in Sub A, every member of the club will perform two or more shifts per year in the role of Range Attendant. The Board of Directors will determine the actual number of shifts required. Written directives outlining the duties of the Range Attendant will be provided, but members shall not be encouraged to put themselves in physical danger as part of their duties. The method of determining which day a member will be expected to serve as a Range Attendant will be decided by the Membership Secretary, and approved by the Board of Directors. Members who are unable to serve as a Range Attendant because of age or health may be granted a deferral, if the Membership Secretary or his/her designee receives a written request and the Board of Directors approves it. Any member who is unable to fulfill his/her scheduled shift due to unexpected illness, family emergency, changes in work schedule, or other reason must advise the Membership Secretary and find a replacement at their earliest opportunity. Failure to do so may result in a financial penalty, a suspension of member privileges, and/or other action as determined by the Board of Directors. Financial penalties, suspension of member privileges and/or other action may also be imposed on members who fail to sign up for or work the required number of shifts during the calendar year. (C) Any member in good standing, while in active military service, shall be considered a member in good standing without payment of dues or donation of work. Any assessment, if levied, will become due and payable on the member's return from active military service. (D) Dues for the coming year shall become payable on the first of December of the current year. A member whose dues are not paid by the last day of December shall be ruled delinquent, and his name shall be removed from the membership roster. Delinquent members may be reinstated after the last day of December provided the club membership is not full. Delinquent members must pay the full amount of dues plus the initiation fee. Work credit will not be honored for delinquent members. (E) Applications to fill membership vacancies for the coming year shall be accepted by the Membership Secretary after November 1 st of the current year. Each candidate must be sponsored by a member in good standing, who has donated 8 hours of work for the previous year as recorded by the Membership Secretary. 17

18 (F) The method of recording a member s work requirement by the Membership Secretary will be the certification of the eight hour donation by a club Officer or Board member on the back of the membership card. (G) The membership may agree, by a majority vote taken at a regular meeting of the club, to levy special assessments on itself. No assessment vote shall be taken, however, until all members shall have been given at least one month's notice of the intention to vote on an assessment proposal. (H) All funds or moneys from club operations and activities shall accrue directly to the treasury of the club and shall be accounted for by the club's Treasurer. All donations and gifts, likewise, shall accrue to the club treasury for general purposes unless the donor specifies their use for a particular purpose. ARTICLE V (A) Regular meetings of this club for the transaction of ordinary business shall be held at such time and place as designated by the Board of Directors. (B) Special meetings may be held at any time upon the call of the President or Board of Directors, or upon a demand in writing stating the object of the special meeting and signed by not less than 10 percent of the membership entitled to vote. Notice of the time, place, and object of any special meeting shall be given to all officers and members in good standing not less than seven days prior to the date fixed for the special meeting. (C) Thirty members, including at least fifteen officers, shall constitute a quorum to transact business at any meeting. ARTICLE VI (A) The officers of this club shall consist of a President, Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Corresponding Secretary, Membership Secretary, Treasurer, Finance Officer, Conservation Officer, Research Officer, two Sergeants-at-arms, Activity Chairs for each of the special activities of the Club {Archery, Yard, 100 Yard, High Power/KD (Known Distance), Pistol, Shotgun, Smallbore, Firearms Safety, Camping, and Food Services} and ten members of the Board of Directors. (B) The Board of Directors shall be composed of the elected officers of this club: The Activity Chairs as listed in (A) above, the ten members of the Board of Directors elected from the general membership, plus an Editor appointed by the Board of Directors. (C) Officers and the elective members of the Board of Directors shall be elected annually at the club's regular December meeting, and shall take office at the January meeting. (D) Candidates for office shall be nominated in one of two methods: (1) by a nominating committee appointed May 1st of each year by the President, or, (2) by nominations from the membership. The number of candidates for 18

19 any individual office shall not be limited, but members may only run for one office per election. (E) The Nominating Committee shall present its nominations for office to the Board of Directors and the membership at a regular scheduled meeting before September 30 th of each year. The Board shall accept the report and present the committee s nominations to the membership through the October newsletter. After the Board accepts the report of the Nominating Committee, the committee is automatically dissolved. Nominations for office from consenting candidates from the general membership shall be directed to the Corresponding Secretary in writing, to be received by November 1st, for printing in the December newsletter. The December newsletter shall be mailed and/or ed to the entire membership no less than two weeks prior to the election. In addition, the committee shall recommend to the Board of Directors, on behalf of individual members for outstanding service, any certificates of recognition, awards, honorariums or honorary life memberships. ARTICLE VII Duties of the officers of the club shall be as follows: (A) PRESIDENT - Shall preside at all meetings of the club. He or she shall be a member ex-officio of all club committees and shall perform all such other duties as usually pertain to his office such as the appointment of committees and the calling of special meetings. He shall conduct all meetings according to Roberts Rules of Parliamentary Procedure. (B) VICE-PRESIDENT - Shall preside at all meetings in the absence of the President. In addition, he or she shall also preside over the meetings of the Board of Directors and shall serve as chairman of the Nominating Committee. (C) RECORDING SECRETARY - Shall record the minutes of all regular and special meetings of the membership and the Board of Directors. He or she shall maintain the minutes and all club records in permanent form and shall transfer these records to his or her successor. He or she shall assist the Corresponding Secretary when necessary, and preside at membership meeting in the absence of the President and Vice-President. (D) CORRESPONDING SECRETARY - Shall be responsible for the writing of all official club correspondence. The Corresponding Secretary shall be responsible for the notification of all members of club meetings. (E) MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY The Membership Secretary shall collect dues and issue cards to all members. The secretary will be responsible for preparing and maintaining an official club roster. The official club roster will be available for inspection by club members at meetings. The secretary will maintain a record of membership classes and provide data, including 19

20 20 the number of work credits and Senior membership discounts, to the Finance Officer for budgeting purposes. (F) TREASURER - Shall receive and disburse all funds of this club, keeping accurate records thereof according to the approved budget and ledger format. All income and expense items are to be posted on a gross basis. He or she shall render a monthly report to club members of expenditures, income, and cash balances. The Treasurer s books shall be open for inspection by the Board of Directors at any time provided the Treasurer is first given one week's notice of such inspection. An auditing committee of three members appointed by the President shall inspect and audit the Treasurer's books annually and report the results of such audit at the December membership meeting. The Board of Directors may require that the Treasurer be bonded in an amount equal to all moneys accessible to the Treasurer. The cost of such bond shall be paid from club funds. (G) SERGEANTS-AT-ARMS - Shall prepare the meeting place for each meeting. They shall maintain order under the directions of the President or presiding officer, and shall report any damage of property during the meeting to the presiding officer or Recording Secretary. When directed by the presiding officer, the Sergeant-at-Arms shall ascertain that all members attending the meeting are in good standing and eligible to vote. (H) CONSERVATION OFFICER - Shall be responsible for keeping the membership informed on conservation and firearms matters pending before governmental bodies. Likewise, he or she shall be responsible for dissemination of this club's position on such matters to the appropriate governmental bodies or other groups including conservation organizations. He or she shall serve as a delegate to all conservation groups or other sportsmen's organizations with which this club may become affiliated. The Conservation Officer may appoint assistants, with the approval of the Board of Directors, to assist in carrying out his or her duties, including serving as a delegate or alternate. (I) FINANCE OFFICER - Shall be responsible for the preparation of all budgets. This officer is to be a member of the Board of Directors and chairman of the standing committee on finance consisting of the Treasurer, Finance Officer, and up to three members of the Board of Directors, as appointed by the President. This committee shall meet as necessary to complete the budget and address other finance-related matters of the club. The fiscal year shall run from January 1 to December 31 of each budgeted year. The Finance Officer will audit all income and expense items for the past year and present a written summary to the general membership meeting. He or she will present an estimate of income and expense along with comparative summaries of the two (2) previous years to the Board of Directors at the November Board meeting for review and recommendation

21 to the general membership at the December general membership meeting. Final responsibility for the budget shall be the Board of Directors. Any expenditure must be part of the annual budget. Any proposed expenditure up to $500.00, not included in the annual budget, must be reviewed by the Finance Committee and presented to the Board of Directors for approval. Any proposed expenditure over $ must be reviewed by the Finance Committee and the Board of Directors and presented to the general membership for approval. (J) RESEARCH OFFICER - Under the direction of the President and/or the Board of Directors, the Research Officer shall gather data, conduct research, write and publish procedures related to the club operations, present summary reports and recommendations to the Board of Directors and the general membership (not to include budget reports). He or she shall maintain files and documents on status of land titles and documents, non-profit corporations, tax exemptions, job descriptions and operations procedures. Copies of the Research Officer s data, research, procedures, reports, recommendations, etc., shall be distributed to the elected officers and the Board of Directors as required, and to the Recording Secretary for inclusion in the club minutes. The Research Officer, to the extent possible, shall function as club historian to gather and maintain historical files. He or she shall be a voting member of the Board of Directors. (K) ACTIVITY CHAIRS - Activity Chairs for each of the special activities of the Club (Archery, 25/50 Yard, 100 Yard, KD/High Power, Pistol, Shotgun, Smallbore, Firearms Safety, Camping, and Food Service) shall be responsible for the range area and activities to which they are elected. They shall enforce rules and regulations pertaining to safety and conduct of all members, and their guests. They shall plan work programs and shooting activities in conjunction with the other officers and Board members. Insofar as possible, all matches shall be conducted under the rules of the National Rifle Association, Minnesota Rifle and Revolver Association, Minnesota State Archery Association and/or the Amateur Trap Shooters Association. The Food Service Chair will provide food for official Club events as requested and approved by the Board of Directors. He or she may request a fund advance for each event. Food-type prizes for any club event will be charged against that event and not the food service budget. The Food Chair will recruit assistants as needed. The Firearms Safety Chair shall collect reports from members holding DNR Firearms Safety training on Club facilities and report to the Board of Directors the member s name and the number of participants involved in the class. The chair will also contact the Elk River Police Department and the Sherburne County Sheriff s Department to collect and record the number of officers and deputies that receive official training on club property and 21