The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) announced that the Cheney Shooting Range in Reno County will reopen later this month after state and independent testing confirmed no threat to the public or wildlife from potential lead contamination.
The range had remained closed beyond its usual winter shutdown while the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) conducted an investigation into lead levels in soil, groundwater, and nearby streams. The review, prompted by a user’s concern earlier this year, confirmed the site is safe for public use.
“We took every necessary step to ensure there is no threat to the public or wildlife,” said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “I understand the delayed reopening was frustrating for some users, but given our commitment to protecting both people and wildlife, we prioritized a thorough investigation before resuming operations.”
Located near Cheney Reservoir — a primary water source for Wichita — the range is operated by KDWP on land owned by the federal Bureau of Reclamation. Testing began in April 2025 and included soil and groundwater sampling, followed by expanded groundwater testing in July. All results were reviewed by KDHE.
Findings confirm no contamination risks
The investigation found:
• Elevated lead levels in surface soil near shooting backstops, consistent with normal range activity.
• No evidence of lead migration underground in subsurface soil
• Groundwater tests showing no dissolved lead at concerning levels.
• Stream surveys along the North Fork Ninnescah River showing healthy aquatic life, including an increase in fish populations compared to 2002 and the presence of the Arkansas Darter — a species in need of conservation — not previously recorded.
“The investigation … has shown that there has been no migration of lead contamination from the backstop/impact area and lead has not impacted the shallow groundwater aquifer, which flows into the North Fork Ninnescah River,” said KDHE Deputy Secretary and Director of Environment Kate Gleeson. “The operation of the Cheney Shooting Range is in compliance with applicable regulations.”
Reopening set before hunting season
With the findings in hand, KDWP plans to reopen the range by October 25, 2025, giving hunters time to sight in before the December deer firearms season.
“Now that we can safely say that lead remnants at the Cheney Shooting Range are not posing a threat to the public or wildlife, I have charged our staff with reopening the range no later than October 25,” Kennedy said.
Upgrades coming in 2026
KDWP also confirmed that previously planned renovations will begin next year. The upgrades will include improvements to accommodate more shooters and sound attenuation features to enhance safety and user experience.
Reopening updates and range information will be posted on the KDWP website as they become available.