The River Valley Centre in North Battleford is the proposed site for a new provincial outdoor archery range under a three-year joint-use agreement between the city and the Battle River Archery Club. (File photo/battlefordsNOW staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

MEETING PREVIEW

Battle River Archery Club could bring new provincial outdoor range to North Battleford

Aug 15, 2025 | 3:00 PM

City council will vote Monday, Aug. 18, on whether to give the Battle River Archery Club, based in Battleford, seasonal use of the fenced area behind the River Valley Centre in North Battleford for a new provincial outdoor archery range.

The proposed three-year joint-use agreement would run from Aug. 19, 2025, to Oct. 31, 2028, with an option to renew. It follows nearly a year of discussions and a trial 3D competition in May that city staff said went ahead without safety issues.

The club first brought the idea to council in September 2024, showing a preliminary map of the course. Safety concerns were raised because of the range’s proximity to the North Shore Trail.

After revising the plan in January, the club met with city officials on site in May to discuss further risk reductions. Those include installing large backstops at all targets, posting signage along the fence line and pathway, and using a red flag to signal when the range is active.

If approved, the club would have access from April 1 to Oct. 31 each year, operating on weekday evenings and from 7 a.m. to dusk on weekends and holidays. The site would be off-limits during private bookings or city events, with notices posted on the meeting room doors.

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Under the agreement, the club would be responsible for maintaining the grounds within the fenced area, keeping signage in good condition, repairing hazards, and installing and maintaining targets, backstops, barricades and the red flag system.

While the rent would be set at $1 a year, the club would be responsible for all maintenance costs and safety measures, and carry $5 million in liability and participant insurance, plus special event coverage for tournament or bow hunting. The city would also be named as an additional insured.

City administration said the project aligns with its Regional Recreation Master Plan by expanding access to recreation spaces, promoting active living, and supporting events that bring social and economic benefits. The club would be responsible for promoting the facility.

If approved, the range could host both recreational shooting and competitions starting next spring.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com