Game and Fish director confirms endorsement of shooting complex

CODY (WNE) — After reports of environmental concerns by Wyoming Game and Fish being suppressed to approve the State Shooting Complex site, G&F Director Angi Bruce and Commissioner Ashlee Lundvall set the record straight.

Bruce’s statement, made at the State Shooting Complex’s June 26 board meeting, comes in the wake of reports that the department she heads had concerns regarding the environmental impact of construction on the site. As reported by WyoFile, the site is a core sage grouse habitat and crucial range for struggling mule deer.

“We all know there’s been some miscommunication or maybe some department staff sending a different message. I just want to apologize for that, ” Bruce said. “Like I said, we’re 100% supportive and want to show that in any way shape or form that we can.”

Bruce’s statement in favor of the project was reinforced by G&F Commissioner Lundvall, who also spoke at last Thursday’s board meeting. 

“I hear comments on all sides and I want it to be known that Game and Fish has been involved since the beginning and we appreciate the involvement moving forward to make sure that this is not only a great move for Park County and Cody in general, but for the wildlife that we all love and support as well,” she said.

Both Bruce and Lundvall saw an opportunity in the SSC project to increase outreach and education for hunters and other members of the public.

“The state of Wyoming made this a priority. We saw that during the legislative session by them passing this thing through twice… This is a priority for the state, we want this to be successful, and we are right on board with that,” Bruce said.

On the subject of wildlife, SSC board member James Klessens said wildlife was taken into consideration during the drafting of the final site plan. 

This story was published on June 30, 2025.