Iowa’s Celebrity Hunting Program Criticized
January 22nd, 2012 by Ric Hanson
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Some question whether Iowa needs to continue giving celebrities easy access to deer hunting in the state, but it appears unlikely that the promotional program will be scrapped. The state program gives 75 celebrities, such as rocker Ted Nugent and former professional athlete Bo Jackson, an opportunity to buy a special out-of-state deer hunting permit each year. Other non-residents might wait years to buy a similar permit. The celebrity program began in 1998 to help promote the state as a top hunting destination. Iowa Bowhunters Association President Randy Taylor tells the Des Moines Register that he’s not sure the state really needs the promotion now because deer hunters nationwide already consider Iowa a top spot to bag a trophy deer.