Committee Mission Statement

Administer safe and fun program featuring Rifle, Shotgun, Muzzleloader Rifle, and Archery, for Scouts at all levels in the council. Ensure the proper training and certification of adult volunteers to ensure a robust Range and Target Activities program offering a variety of activities suitable for Cubs, Webelos, AOLs, Scouts, Venturers and Adult Leaders. Ensure that all facilities, equipment and materials are in good repair and adequate for safe and enjoyable activities.

Training Opportunities

Entry Level Trainings

Range Safety Officer – RSO (NRA)
The NRA Range Safety Officer (RSO) training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to safely oversee shooting activities, ensuring strict adherence to range protocols, emergency procedures, and firearm safety rules. In Scouting America, this training is essential for maintaining a secure environment during shooting sports, fostering a culture of safety, and meeting Scouting’s requirements for certified supervision on ranges.
Age 21+

Archery Level 1 (USAA)
Provides foundational training in archery safety, basic shooting techniques, and range operations, allowing instructors to lead introductory archery programs in Scouting America while ensuring a safe and structured learning environment.
Age 15+

Basic Instructor Training – BIT (NRA)
Prerequisite course required for all NRA instructor certifications, designed to develop teaching skills and instructional techniques necessary to effectively train others in firearm safety and shooting fundamentals.
Age 21+

BB Gun Rangemaster (BSA)
Trains individuals to safely supervise and operate BB gun and Slingshot ranges at Scout properties and events, covering range setup, safety procedures, and instructional techniques to ensure a controlled and fun range experience for Scouts.
Age 18+

Muzzleloading Basic (NRA)
Provides participants with fundamental knowledge and hands-on experience in the safe handling, loading, firing, and maintenance of muzzleloading firearms. This training ensures a thorough understanding of range safety, shooting techniques, and historical firearm use, making it essential for safe and engaging programs in Scouting America.
Age 18+

Pistol Basic (NRA)
Provides foundational training in pistol safety, handling, marksmanship, and range procedures, ensuring participants can safely and responsibly engage in BSA-approved pistol shooting activities under certified supervision.
Age 18+

Rifle Basic (NRA)
Provides foundational training in rifle safety, handling, and marksmanship, equipping participants with the skills needed for safe participation in rifle shooting activities under certified supervision.
Age 18+

Shotgun Basic (NRA)
Provides fundamental training in shotgun safety, handling, and shooting techniques, ensuring participants understand proper firearm use and range safety for supervised participation in BSA shotgun shooting sports.
Age 18+

Intermediate Level Trainings

Archery Level 2 (USAA)
Expands on Level 1 certification by including advanced coaching techniques, equipment maintenance, and program management, enabling instructors to oversee archery programs, train Level 1 instructors, and maintain high safety and instructional standards in Scouting activities.
Age 18+ & current Archery Level I certification

Muzzleloading Instructor (NRA)
Certifies individuals to teach and supervise muzzleloading firearm activities, covering safety protocols, instructional techniques, and range management. This certification is crucial for maintaining a safe and educational environment and ensuring Scouts learn proper handling and respect for muzzleloading firearms under qualified leadership.
Age 21+ & current Muzzleloading Basic certification

Pistol Instructor (NRA)
Certifies individuals to teach safe handling, marksmanship, and responsible use of pistols, ensuring proper supervision and instruction for BSA-approved pistol shooting programs while maintaining strict safety protocols.
Age 21+ & current Pistol Basic certification

Rifle Instructor (NRA)
Certifies individuals to teach rifle safety, shooting techniques, and range procedures, ensuring Scouts receive quality instruction and supervision in rifle shooting activities.
Age 21+ & current Rifle Basic certification

Shotgun Instructor (NRA)
Trains individuals to instruct Scouts in shotgun safety, handling, and shooting techniques, ensuring safe and effective supervision of BSA shotgun shooting programs in compliance with NRA and BSA standards.
Age 21+ & current Shotgun Basic certification

Advanced Level Trainings

CRSO – Chief Range Safety Officer (NRA)
Prepares individuals to train and certify Range Safety Officers (RSOs), oversee multiple shooting ranges, and manage range safety operations, making it a critical certification for maintaining exceptional safety standards across Scouting’s Range and Target programs.
Age 21+ & current RSO certification

Range Activities Director – National Camping School (BSA) – Various week long dates – $695
This is a week long course hosted through the National Camping School program. The course is not hosted through the Long Beach Area Council however attendees must register through their local council and receive permission from Council Staff. Contact the RATA Staff Advisor for more details. Course dates and locations can be found here: https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/national-camping-school/#ncssections
Age 21+, NRA Basic Rifle, NRA Basic Shotgun, NRA Rifle Instructor, NRA Shotgun Instructor, USA Archery Level 1 Instructor, & Local Council Approval

Resources

National Range & Target Activities Website

Range & Target Activities manual .PDF [national BSA]

Range & Target Activities Schedule

June & July – Summer Camp @ Camp Tahquitz
July 1 – Aug. 2 – Webelos Weekend @ Camp Tahquitz

Year Round – Troop Fun Shoots at Tahquitz and beyond! Contact the RATA committee for support!

Committee Membership

Chairman – Tuan Pham

Members – Albert Salazar, Bob Colley, Brian Bartel, Charlie Benedict, Chris Shararian, Howard Ito, Jack Jones, Todd Saunders, Tanner Slizza, Chris Want, Jeb Price, Andy Long, Greg Melodia, Andrew Olvera

Staff Advisor – Kevin Folkerts

Meetings: First Tuesday of every month at 1800 Hours on Zoom

Meeting Minutes: Coming SOON!

Without Scouting, many youth will not have an opportunity to be exposed to Range and Target Activities in a safe and structured environment. Range and Target Activities for all Council events are staffed by members of the committee alongside individuals certified and vetted by its members. These dedicated volunteers have received special training and certifications to ensure the safety and enjoyment of scouts at every level of Scouting.

The Committee is now looking to grow our trained volunteers to improve our ability to provide enhanced range and target activities for scouts in our program. If you have experience with firearms and/or archery and are interested in joining our team.

Please contact our committee Chairman Tuan Pham for more information.