DUBUQUE – Possible changes to hunting methods at Mines of Spain State Recreation Area will be the topic of a public meeting on Jan. 30. The DNR sponsored meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the EB Lyons Interpretive Center in the park.
The DNR would like to discuss and gather input on a proposal to discontinue shotgun hunting in Mines of Spain. Archery hunting for deer, turkey and all other legal species would continue.
Since 1991, hunting with shotguns has been allowed in the park during specific seasons. Archery hunting of all legal species is permitted in compliance with all open-season, license and possession limits. Shotgun and archery deer hunting has helped manage and control the deer population of the area.
While the deer population has steadily decreased, park use for other activities has increased, including winter hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, bird watching, photography and other winter activities. The park hosts more than 250,000 visitors annually.
State park staff will be on hand to explain the proposal, answer questions and receive comments. The interpretive center is located at 8991 Bellevue Heights, just south of Dubuque on Hwy. 52 South.
Written comments will also be accepted. Send comments to: C/O Hunting; Mines of Spain Recreation Area; 8991 Bellevue Hts.; Dubuque, Iowa 52003-9214 or via e-mail at Mines_of_Spain@dnr.iowa.gov.
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