Non-toxic shot required for dove hunting

Non-toxic shot will be required for the hunting of doves when Iowa's inaugural season opens Sept. 1.

The Iowa Natural Resource Commission added that requirement today when it approved a final rule allowing the hunting of doves in Iowa.

“There will be a number of hunters who will be opposed to this decision, but at the end of the day, this action by the commission will help protect Iowa's environment and wildlife from the adverse affects of lead,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Roger Lande.

Gred Drees, chairman of the Natural Resource Commission, said the dove hunting amendment was "the first step" in a move away from lead ammunition in all hunting sports.

"We're glad to be the leaders in that direction," he said.

Lead slugs used in deer hunting have been blamed for fatal lead poisoning among eagles and other animals that feed upon carcasses.

Drees said Gov. Terry Branstad, who had initially opposed the commission's intention to require non-toxic shot for dove hunting, signalled his approval on Thursday morning.

Hunters who oppose the use of non-toxic shot often contend that steel and other non-toxic alternatives either cost more than lead or are less effective.

The non-toxic shot requirement follows several discussions by the commission during the past year concerning the impacts of lead shot to the environment and on wildlife.

Lead shot for waterfowl hunting has been banned nationwide since 1991. Iowa has required non-toxic shot for waterfowl hunting since 1987.

The rules approved by the commission allow for a dove season starting Sept. 1 and ending Nov. 9. The final rule allows the harvest of 15 doves a day and can be either mourning or Eurasian collared-doves. The possession limit is 30 and the season is open statewide.

The decision to ban toxic shot for dove hunting was based largely on the fact that much of the hunting occurs over a small area which would increase the likelihood of lead concentrations being created.

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