Proposed Howitzer Testing in Adirondacks Sparks Backlash

Residents and environmentalists voice concerns over potential noise and disruption to wildlife

Mar. 11, 2026 at 6:20pm

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A proposal to test large artillery, including 155mm howitzers, in the remote Adirondack Park in New York has drawn widespread opposition from local residents and environmentalists. The private military contractor behind the plan, Michael Hopmeier, says the tests would support national security, but critics fear the loud blasts would shatter the tranquility of the park and potentially disturb wildlife like moose, deer, bears, and birds. Regulators are holding a public hearing to determine if the testing is compatible with the rules and character of the Adirondack Park.

Why it matters

The Adirondacks are known for their natural beauty and tranquility, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife. Residents are concerned that the proposed howitzer testing would disrupt this delicate ecosystem and the peaceful character of the region. The debate highlights the tension between preserving the wilderness and accommodating economic development and national security interests.

The details

Hopmeier's company, Unconventional Concepts, Inc., wants to establish a testing range off a country road about 10 miles west of Lake Champlain. The plan involves firing steel projectiles out of 155mm howitzer barrels 30 times a year over a distance of about two football fields. A metal shipping container filled with sand and gravel would catch the projectiles, which would have no explosive warheads. Hopmeier says the tests would help assess barrel wear and recoil for the military, but has no current contract with the U.S. Army.

  • The initial application for the testing range was submitted in 2021.
  • Hopmeier's company conducted 'Jaded Thunder' military exercises on the property last September, which drew complaints from residents about low-flying helicopters and gunfire.
  • A public hearing on the howitzer testing proposal is now scheduled for April 22, 2026.

The players

Michael Hopmeier

The private military contractor behind the proposal to establish a howitzer testing range in the Adirondacks.

Dan Canavan

A local resident who lives about a mile from the proposed testing range and is opposed to the plan, arguing that a 155mm howitzer cannot be equated to a hunting rifle.

Lanita Canavan

Dan Canavan's wife and a member of the local town council, who is concerned about the loss of the quiet character of the remote municipality.

April Guilder

A local resident who is worried about the potential impact of the howitzer tests on the area's water resources.

Jim Pulsifer

The owner of the land proposed for the testing range, who says he is offering the land free of charge because the work would help the country and bring much-needed employment to the area.

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What they’re saying

“You can't equate a 155 millimeter howitzer with a hunting rifle, but that's how he's been selling it.”

— Dan Canavan, Local resident

“Who's sticking up for us? That's my question. I don't feel like there's anybody that's doing that, and that's kind of frustrating.”

— April Guilder, Local resident

“I know there's a lot of people that moved into the Adirondacks for their little peace and quiet. Well, people have to live in the Adirondacks, too — and make a living.”

— Jim Pulsifer, Owner of proposed testing land

What’s next

An administrative law judge is expected to spend months exploring whether test-firing howitzers is compatible with the rules and character of the Adirondack Park following the public hearing on April 22, 2026.

The takeaway

The proposed howitzer testing in the Adirondacks has sparked a debate over balancing environmental preservation, community interests, and national security priorities. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how the Adirondack Park Agency manages future development proposals that threaten the region's natural tranquility and wildlife.