Protect our peace and our environment
If you share our concerns about the environmental impact, noise, and safety risks of how New Bedford Police operate the Woodcock Road rifle range, let us know.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Woodcock Road rifle range?
Strange as it may seem, the Town of New Bedford operates a shooting range on Woodcock Road in Dartmouth.
But this is a range for more than local community shooters or only New Bedford and Dartmouth officers. New Bedford rents it most days to police departments across New England. For more information see our facts page.
While we sincerely appreciate law enforcement’s invaluable role in ensuring our safety, it’s essential to engage in open dialogue about the potential impacts of the firing range on our community.
How does the range impact its neighbors?
The continuous noise disturbances from the firing range disrupt our neighborhood’s peace and tranquility, impacting residents’ quality of life. Additionally, we are concerned about the potential safety hazards posed by inadequate safety measures at the range. However, equally concerning is the environmental impact, particularly the risk of lead contamination in nearby wetlands and drinking water sources. Preserving the health of our environment and safeguarding our natural resources is paramount for the long-term sustainability of our community.
You might be shocked at how disturbing the range can be. Please see our videos, and read resident’s stories.
Do you want to close the range?
No.
We want the New Bedford Police Department to operate the range in a manner that is safe, respectful of neighbors, and considerate of the environment.
What are the environmental risks?
The dangers of lead contamination from shooting ranges are serious and well understood. Lead exposure is associated with many serious health issues, ranging from neurological damage to cardiovascular problems, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established best practices for shooting ranges to minimize environmental impacts and ensure the safe operation of these facilities. These guidelines emphasize the importance of proper lead management to prevent soil and water contamination.
How can I help?
The most helpful thing you can do is sign our petition here.
DQCC 