DNR, get serious about the deer problem

Your Nov. 22 editorial cited 15 fatalities have occurred in Iowa from 2001 through 2008 because of “distracted drivers” using cell phones. You want legislation to deter texting. That sounds good to me.

During the same time period, 56 fatalities occurred involving car crashes with deer. A study lists Iowa as the fourth highest among states as being most likely to hit a deer. Iowans as a whole are safe drivers as we are among the lowest for insurance rates in the country.

The only conclusion is that we continue to have a deer population that is too high. Cities are forced to hire marksmen to hunt deer because of the dangers caused by overpopulation. This problem didn't exist 60 years ago.

I understand the economic implications of deer hunting. However, I see safety of residents as a higher function of government, rather than providing leisure time activities that jeopardize the safety of all Iowans. The Department of Natural Resources must get serious about this problem instead of patronizing me, telling me to slow down and watch out for deer.

Dick Graham

West Union