Some motorists have tried deer whistles that supposedly emit a noise causing deer to scatter. Problem is, the whistles — if they work — can't make a deer scatter the right direction; sometimes, the scatter results in a splatter.
Not too long ago, there was word of a project that was supposed to reduce the number of deer on highways by the use of some mechanical warning device. We haven't heard much about it lately, although we're all in favor of it.
In the meantime, deer problems keep developing — problems, that is, unless you own a body shop.
There are more than 400,000 of the white-tailed beauties in the state now. But along with providing thrills to nature watchers and hunters, they've had a terrible impact on motorists' safety — 20 people have been killed in the past two years in deer-related crashes — and on crops devastated by the hungry hordes.
Now, the Iowa Legislature is working to reduce the deer herd and thereby reduce its impact. The Senate Natural Resources Committee approved 12-0 a measure to issue thousands more free hunting licenses to landowners and their tenants. A landlord and renter on one farm unit could get up to 10 free licenses.
Out-of-state hunters who buy an any-sex license would also be required to buy a doe-only license. That would not only reduce the herd, but would raise a projected $600,000.
Also, every deer hunter would be charged $1 to help pay for processing venison donated by hunters to charitable organizations.
Sen. Dennis Black, D-Grinnell, said his measure and other control efforts could reduce deer numbers by one-fourth in two years.
It seems that issuing of additional licenses would be met with enthusiasm. Last year, 346,000 permits were issued, 80,000 more than in 2003, and nearly 200,000 deer were harvested.
Several sportsmen's groups support the latest legislation, which now goes to the full Senate, as does the Iowa DNR, charged with managing wildlife numbers and enforcing hunting laws.
This bill, while not a cure-all by any means, sounds like it has promise. Certainly it seems logical that reducing deer numbers would reduce the odds of hitting one and reduce damage to crops.
Plus, it would add to the economy — goodness knows, Iowa can use the money — as residents and out-of-state hunters spend more on the sport, from guns and ammo to lodging, restaurants and such.
A similar bill is being considered in the House. Here's hoping that, in this year of renewed vows of cooperation, lawmakers can craft effective legislation resulting in fewer deer and safer roads.
One more benefit could result: The state veterinarian has warned that Chronic Wasting Disease is in nearly every state around Iowa, and he is asking for $127,000 to guard against the neurological illness. While not a threat to humans, officials recommend not eating meat from infected deer.
It would be a shame if the disease reaches Iowa, where officials warn it could have a devastating impact. If $127,000 would help stop its spread, it would be money well spent.
Agree? Disagree? Send your letter to Editor's Mailbag, Box 271, Mason City, IA 50402-0271, or news@globegazette.com.
