Community Archery Strategy

In 2005 the Archery Trade Association developed a strategy to infuse archery and bowhunting into local communities. In its early stages, the program was called our Community Archery Program (CAP), but the name was changed in 2009 to reflect the fact the program isn't singular in nature, rather it is a strategy utilizing many archery and bowhunting programs in addition to the development of facilities.

The strategy typically begins with the development of an archery park where archers can participate in shooting year-round followed by an infusion of programs into schools and local recreation programs. The programs incorporated into the strategy continue to grow and currently include the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), After School Archery Program (ASAP), Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD), 4-H Shooting Sports and Explore Bowhunting.

The strategy also includes a supporting role provided by local archery shops, clubs and organizations. The ATA provides funds, expertise, equipment and targets to support state wildlife agencies that utilize the Community Archery Strategy to develop and manage archery parks and after-school programs in local communities.

To learn more about the ATA’s efforts to grow archery and bowhunting, please e-mail Michelle Doerr at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call (320) 562-2680.

CAS History

Since 2004, the ATA has provided funding totaling approximately $930,000 — including grants provided through this strategy — to initiate NASP in the United States, Canada and Australia. It has also contributed nearly $1.2 million in CAS grants, equipment and direct aid to state wildlife agencies to grow archery and expand bowhunting opportunities. From 2007 to 2009, the ATA provided more than $675,000 to develop CAS in Alabama, Alaska, Iowa, Michigan, New Jersey and Tennessee.

News

For the latest ATA news about its Community Archery Strategy, click here.