In April of 2024, we launched an exciting new initiative to clean up dozens of derelict target-shooting sites in the Los Padres National Forest. In partnership with workers from The C.R.E.W. of Ojai, we successfully removed over 900 lbs of spent lead ammunition and other contaminants from seven sites located in Ventura County. ForestWatch has set a goal of cleaning up at least 30 derelict target-shooting sites in 2024.
Though lead has been banned for hunting in the State of California due to its toxicity, it is still allowed for target shooting, and nearly all ammunition historically used for target shooting is comprised of lead. Over time, lead shot and spent lead bullets accumulate at break down at shooting sites. This lead can leach into the soil, contaminate waterways, be absorbed by vegetation, and accumulate in wildlife over time. In addition to lead, other toxins and heavy metals are found in bullets, casings, targets, and electronic or hazardous wastes commonly found at dispersed shooting areas.
A ban on “dispersed” target shooting in the Los Padres National Forest was first adopted in 2005, when the Forest Service updated its management plan for the area. However, despite its adoption, the ban was never implemented until 2018 following a lawsuit filed by ForestWatch alleging violations of the National Forest Management Act and the Endangered Species Act. Despite implementation of the ban, most of the highly polluted sites remain un-remediated, posing a threat to wildlife and the environment.
Lead poisoning from spent ammunition and ingestion of microtrash are the top-two causes of human-based mortality for Califonria condors. With the ability to fly more than 150 miles in a single day, and a penchant for curiosity, California condors are particularly susceptible to the threats posed by lead and microtrash pollution at derelict target shooting sites in the LPNF.
In 2016, Los Padres ForestWatch conducted field surveys to document the extent of target shooting pollution. Read our report on the impacts of unmanaged shooting in the forest here.
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