DES MOINES - Bow hunters with a Polk County management zone deer license may hunt deer from Sept. 15 through Jan. 29, 2006. The goal of this expanded season, approved by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Polk County Deer Task Force, is to increase deer harvest, particularly does, in this management zone.

"By adding days before and after the November rut, we hope hunters will spend more days in the field and lead to an increased harvest," said Bill Bunger, wildlife depredation biologist with the Iowa DNR.

As with most outdoor activities, weather is an important factor for hunters. If it is too hot in September, it may not be as inviting to hunters fighting mosquitoes. Warm weather also requires quick and proper care of meat. "On the flip side, it takes a pretty hardy soul to sit in a tree stand in late January in a normal winter," Bunger said.

Bunger said that while these dates have been approved across the entire management zone, some entities within the zone may have reduced seasons and may not be allowing this early opener.

"It is important that you contact the local administrator before assuming these dates are being utilized," he said. Those hunting in Urbandale should call 278-3900; hunting in Johnston, call 278-2344; hunting in Polk County Conservation areas, call 323-5363; hunting in Waterworks Park, call 283-8701; hunting the Corps of Engineers land at Saylorville, call 276-4656; and hunting in West Des Moines, call 222-3435.

Each of these entities may also have other conditions and particular areas where hunting is allowed. "Be sure you know the local rules of the hunt," Bunger said.

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