The perfect time for the new local 4-H air rifle club to start practicing would be the arrival of true spring weather … if that ever happens.

Already, a handful of youngsters – mostly ages 9 to 12 – have expressed interest in the new club, begun by Ryan Seal of Joseph. Before now, Seal had never participated in 4-H. But his wife Lisa, who teaches a 4-H knitting class, saw an opportunity for their children to get involved. Two years ago, he passed a National Rifle Association course for instructors. He started the club to pass on skills.

“Statistics show that fewer people are exposed to firearms,” said Seal, who also builds aircraft tires for Alaskan Bushwheel Inc. “More are living in cities and they see (rifles) less and less. It’s a skill that might die out.”

Through the new club, Seal will help a new generation learn how to be responsible around weapons. The club received a grant from the local NRA foundation and purchased pellet rifles and supplies. Students work on proper handling. They develop the patience, breathing, body control and motor skills needed for better accuracy.

So far, the club’s problem has been a lack of practice. By May or June, Seal wants to begin submitting scores and targets to mail-in competitions, but the local kids need at least one month to get familiar with pellet rifles and learn positioning. Shortly after spring break, Seal wants to take his club to the Eagle Cap Shooters Association’s range north of downtown Enterprise. It will be their first practice. “The two things holding me back have been bad weather and no place to shoot,” Seal said.

Anyone with a heated barn or some kind of indoor arena can help the new club by donating the use of the space. To make arrangements, call Seal at 432-0708.