Conservation

The Blue Valley Sportsman Club recently completed restoration of the historic loafing shed at our shooting range using funds generously donated by longtime Club member Tom Peterson. The building, now more than 100 years old, has served the Club for generations and remains an important part of our shooting facilities.

The loafing shed has traditionally been used for equipment storage and, more importantly, as shelter for youth shooters participating in specially configured .22 LR rifle shooting and, more recently, traditional pistol shooting. Youth from Grand and Summit County 4-H competitive shooting programs have used this range and shed for many years, and pistol shooters continue to use the range when it is available.

Over time, the loafing shed deteriorated and became a safety concern. Using Tom Peterson’s donated funds, the Club was able to stabilize and preserve the structure so it can continue to be safely used by current and future members. Restoration work included reinforcing the south side of the building with new upright timbers set on concrete bases, which leveled and stabilized the roof. Rough-cut lumber siding from a local sawmill was installed to replace missing original wall planks.

The project also included construction of a privacy fence along the youth .22 range to provide a sight and sound barrier parallel to Highway 9. Fence materials were also purchased from a local sawmill, and the completed fence is shown in the accompanying photo of the west side of the shed following restoration.

Tom Peterson was a dedicated sportsman who strongly supported youth shooting, safety, and ethical hunting. He was an active trap league participant and a regular competitor in Club fundraising shoots, and he was always willing to help fellow shooters improve their skills. His donation made it possible for the Club to preserve a historic structure while continuing to support youth and family shooting programs.

With the exception of staining, all restoration work was completed this fall by volunteer Club members. Before-and-after photographs illustrate the improvements made to the loafing shed.

In addition, BVSC member Jim McKinley has crafted a memorial plaque recognizing Tom Peterson’s contribution to the Club. The plaque will be placed in a visible location near the youth range and loafing shed.