Board approves amended memorandum with NC State for expanded 4‑H shooting sports practice facility

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 18 approved an amended and restated memorandum of agreement with North Carolina State University to expand 4‑H shooting sports activities at a county‑owned parcel near Highway 210, adjacent to the county landfill and the Locksmith Arena.

County counsel and 4‑H staff said the agreement allows supervised practice in archery, rifle, shotgun and other shooting disciplines under certified 4‑H instructors. The county attorney said the university has approved and signed the agreement and the board’s action formalizes the county’s role and the site use. The board emphasized the site is limited to cooperative extension and certified 4‑H youth development volunteers and that standards, risk‑management plans and best management practices must be met.

Why it matters: Supporters said expanding practice space addresses limited facilities for 4‑H shooting sports and benefits youth participants by providing safe, supervised practice close to home. County officials noted the program’s long history in Johnston County and volunteer leadership; costs for the program expansion were described as handled through volunteers and Cooperative Extension rather than county operational funding.

Implementation: The memorandum specifies an initial schedule of dates (e.g., first and third Saturdays) but includes flexibility: additional dates for competition preparation can be accommodated through county scheduling; permanent schedule expansions would return to the board for approval.

Ending: The board adopted the memorandum by voice vote. Staff and 4‑H volunteers said plans include summer competition participation and further volunteer training.