Northwestern CT Sportsmens Association

Northwestern Connecticut Sportsmen's Association was founded in 1927 on a simple principle: hunting and shooting sports are integral to wildlife and forestry conservation. Nearly a century later, it's still going strong—a 501(c)(7) nonprofit powered entirely by member volunteers.

NWCSA operates 312+ acres of contiguous property with access to another 100 acres, giving members and public event participants serious room to work. The club recently acquired an additional 108 acres (since 2016, they've purchased 183 acres total) and is actively managing the land for wildlife habitat and forestry.

Archery - Practice range at main clubhouse (20, 30, 40, 50 yard distances) - Elevated tower for tree stand simulation - 3D practice range at Flagg Hill Field - 1-mile walk-through 3D course with varying elevation and rest station - National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) recognized—over 500,000 students nationally with zero accidents

Action Pistol - IDPA matches (International Defensive Pistol Association) are the focus - Also hosts PCSL, Action Steel, and Cowboy Action Shooting formats - Matches typically 1st and 3rd Saturdays, April–October, 9AM–2PM - Open to the public (no NWCSA membership required) - New shooter orientations available - Emphasis on skills improvement over prizes

Pistol Range - 14 ports with inward-facing doors and shooting shelves - 50-yard concrete block backdrop with heavy gauge rubber lining - Climate-controlled: ceiling-mounted lighting, heating on timers - Specialty ventilation system - Observer area with work bench and tables/chairs

Rifle Range - 20-port enclosed building with roll-up doors - 200-yard range with shooting benches under cover - 7-foot concrete apron for prone shooting - Target rails every 25 yards (25–100 yards), then every 50 yards beyond - Range safety system installed

Shotgun - Trap range facilities available

Members have access to 400+ total acres for hunting (300+ club-owned, 100+ additional access). The club conducts mandatory safety orientations for new hunters to ensure everyone knows safe/no-hunting zones on the property.

"Members are widely recognized as premiere conservation contributors."

NWCSA takes land stewardship seriously. Current initiatives include: - Habitat restoration at Wilson's Field (originally clear-cut to create New England Cottontail habitat—these rabbits nearly disappeared due to habitat loss) - Invasive species removal: autumn olive, phragmites, bittersweet, multiflora rose - Forestry management with ongoing PA 490 form filings to designate new acquisitions as forest land - Coordination with Connecticut DEEP and USDA on conservation planning

NWCSA is self-governed. Every person on club property must: - Read and sign acknowledgement of all rules and safety protocols - Wear eye and ear protection on all ranges - Follow posted live fire hours (9AM to sunset) - Respect zero-tolerance policies: no alcohol, no controlled substances, no firearms under the influence

Safety is everyone's responsibility. Any member can enforce rules and submit violation reports.

Junior marksmanship programs promote the sport across age groups. The club actively cultivates women's participation and youth development in shooting and hunting sports.

Most events are open to the public—no membership required. All participants complete liability waivers (available for download for adults and minors). Entry fees are nominal.

NWCSA's Legislative Committee monitors local, state, and federal firearms, hunting, and conservation laws. The club actively supports responsible firearms ownership education and advocates for conservation policy.

177 Winsted Norfolk Road Colebrook, CT 06098 860-738-2582

PO Box 76 West Cornwall, CT 06796

New members go through a safety check and property orientation. Prospective Action Pistol shooters can "test drive" 3 matches before committing to IDPA membership. Most public events welcome walk-ups, though pre-registration is recommended.