This bill amends existing laws regarding deer depredation in Iowa, specifically focusing on the economic losses incurred by agricultural producers due to wild animals. It updates the language to broaden the scope of damages covered, changing references from crop, horticultural product, tree, or nursery damage to economic losses in agriculture, horticulture, or silviculture operations. The bill also expands the eligibility for depredation and deer shooting permits to include both landowners and tenants who suffer losses of $1,000 or more, and it allows conservation officers to issue these permits.

Additionally, the bill establishes an annual deer depredation season from January 11 through January 31, during which individuals with valid permits can use various methods, including rifles and bows, to take deer. It also introduces a provision allowing for the disposal of deer taken under these permits through composting or wastage. Overall, the bill aims to provide more comprehensive support for producers facing economic losses due to deer and streamline the permitting process for managing deer populations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 481C.2, 483A.24, 481C.2A