Hunter Information
This fall, special use permits allowing bowhunters to participate in a controlled
bowhunt for antlerless deer will be issued by the organizations listed at the bottom
of this information.
The bowhunt is limited to antlerless deer only, and will take place from Sept. 13
– Jan. 25 (each organization may adjust this season). This bowhunt is being held
in response to continued growth in urban deer population that has resulted in damage
to natural vegetation, increased deer/vehicle collisions, and damage to private
landscaping. Urban deer populations can double every 3 to 4 years if left unchecked.
To participate in this program, potential hunters must do the following:
1. Pass an approved "one-time" International Bowhunter Education
Foundation (I.B.E.F.) bowhunter safety education course.
2. Pass an annual National Field Archery Association (N.F.A.A.)
archery proficiency test. This test will consist of shooting 20 arrrows—10 from
20 yards and 10 from 15 yards—at a full-sized 3-D deer target. Hunters must score
80% or better in the vital target area to pass.
3. Apply with each respective organization for a special use permit.
4. Meet with a representative from the organization to review the
rules of the hunt and the boundaries of the special hunting areas.
5. Purchase a special Polk County antlerless deer license for each
harvest. ( the regular bow hunting license is not valid within the deer management zone)
Bowhunter Safety Education Courses and Archery Proficiency test locations are available
by calling Archery Field and Sports at 515-265-6500, or Happy Apple Archery and
Sporting at 515-981-1095 to those hunters who wish to
become certified for the upcoming season.
The following organizations offer hunting locations through the Urban Deer Bowhunt
program.
Each organization must be contacted separately to receive their respective special
use permit and obtain permission to hunt:
Des Moines Park and Recreation - Mike Gaul 515-208-0310
West Des Moines Park and Recreation - Sally Ortgies 515-222-3447
Des Moines Water Works - Scott Atzen 515-283-8727
City of Johnston - Jim Sanders 515-278-2344
City of Urbandale - S.K. Prophet 515-278-3900
Polk County Conservation Board - Brian Herrstrom 515-967-4889
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Brian Nail 515-276-4656 ext 6515
Walnut Woods State Park - Tim Gedler 515-285-4502
City of Clive - Kelly Canfield 515-223-5246
City of Pleasant Hill - Heath Ellis 515-208-5212