Lake Darling State Park will be closed for a controlled deer hunt on Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4.

The controlled deer hunt is in accordance with the Department of Natural Resources Depredation Program. As Park Ranger Zach Haworth explains, “Adjacent landowners and landowners across the state utilize [the hunt] to help control the deer population to prevent damage to things like crops or vehicles. It’s a population management tool that is used.”

Entrances to Lake Darling State Park will be barricaded, along with signs posted along trailheads. Approximately 40 hunters will be in the park, hunting only antler-less deer in the approved areas.

The park will re-open on Monday, December 6 for normal activities. With questions, contact the Park Office at 319-694-2323 or the District Office at 319-694-2430.