Oh, Deer: West Des Moines Animal Problem Sparks Talks About Hunting in City Limits

An excess of wild deer in West Des Moines is prompting the city council to re-consider city policy on hunting within city limits.

According to the Des Moines Register, city council members talked on June 24 about changing a rule that prevents bow hunting within 200 feet of a building or residence. The ordinance also requires bow hunters to shoot from an elevated stand.

As of February, 112 deer per square mile were identified in the Quail Park neighborhood, according to an aerial study, the article said. This population is four times higher than the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Polk County Deer Task Force recommendation of 20 to 30 deer per square mile.

City officials believe that reducing the distance to 100 feet could help curb the deer overpopulation in the city.

Two deer management zones are currently designated in West Des Moines, the Register reported, including at Southwoods Park and on a private property in the South Woodridge Drive neighborhood south of the Raccoon River.

Council members told the newspaper that a resolution regarding the ordinance should appear on a council meeting agenda in July.