We are deeply disappointed, but more than that, we are sad for all those individuals who are  sensitive to or triggered by the sound of gunshots—vets, PTSD suffers, victims of violence—who seek sanctuary in open spaces and now will no longer have even one day of the week where their peace and serenity in nature is assured.  

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To be outside in nature, to breathe in the air, to feel the direct warmth of the sun, to hear the  song of birds and insects and the sound of wind in the leaves; these are things known  throughout history as curative for the mind and soul. On local, state, national, and international  levels, we preserve and protect our open spaces so that nature itself is accessible to all,  because we as a species have recognized throughout history that spending time in nature is  important for health and healing. 

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So many who have endured, witnessed, or survived violent trauma experience debilitating  anxiety, disorientation, severe loss of control, and overwhelming physical symptoms when they are exposed to the noise of shooting and ammunition bursts. 

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We are also concerned for the safety of those who enjoy outdoor activities, especially kids, pets  and domestic animals, who like to venture to the furthest edges in exploration of their  surroundings. 

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Scared children and other nature lovers can often inadvertently put themselves in the path of a  bullet just trying to get to safety. Rescue dogs in particular can be sent into a terrified panic by the sound of gunfire—shivering, shaking, sometimes even growling and running aimlessly in desperation.  Horses can rear up and bolt, endangering themselves, their riders and anyone in their path. 

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We support everyone’s right to recreate outdoors so long as it does not infringe on anyone  else’s opportunity to do the same. In Connecticut, just 3 out of every 100 people are hunters, yet hunting is permitted on more than 300 days each year. Shouldn’t those who seek peace and refuge in nature also have dedicated days to enjoy the outdoors free from the presence and risks of hunting? 

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Tanya Bourgoin is an ExComm member and our Wildlife Committee Chair of Sierra Club Connecticut.