The New York Times recently reportedon a growing problem in America’s backcountry. Hikers and backpackers in the nation's public lands are increasingly coming into contact with recreational target shooters.
Over 4th of July weekend in Colorado, a 60-year-old camper who was making s’mores with his grandchildren was killed by a stray bullet. One Colorado cycle shop owner said his customers complain of bullets whizzing overhead. In Utah, Bureau of Land Management officials are attempting to ban shooting to preserve prehistoric native rock drawings, which have been riddled with bullets. Hikers have protested being pinned down by gunfireand finding shot-up couches and cars in the National Forests.
However, gun advocates say they have as much right as anyone to use America’s collective backyards. The National Rifle Association has fought attempts to close public lands to shooting.