The Iowa DNR’s new hunter atlas is the perfect resource to find all areas in the state open to public hunting, and includes type of wildlife associated with those areas, open seasons and any restrictions.
“The atlas allows hunters a bird’s eye-view of the area and allows them to print maps, if they want,” said Todd Bogenschutz, upland wildlife biologist for the Iowa DNR.
Another resource is the Iowa Habitat Access Program (IHAP), where private landowners receive assistance to improve habitat on their land in exchange for opening the property for hunter access. The program has added 8,100 acres where hunters can access private property.
Site maps are available at www.iowadnr.gov/ihap showing boundaries, which species would be most likely attracted to the habitat and the location of a comment box where hunters can leave their thoughts on the program. Walk-in public hunting through IHAP is available between September 1 and May 31.
Areas are posted with signs, are regularly patrolled by Iowa DNR conservation officers.
“Hunters should respect private property, stay on the land enrolled in the program and pick up after themselves,” Smith said. “This program is only available because landowners were willing to participate in it.”
Visit the DNR page for complete information on hunting licenses, regulations and tips for hunting in public areas. The hunter atlas can be found on the DNR front page under the list of “popular pages.”
