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Dec. 15, 2024Des Moines, Iowa |  By: Jeremy Werner

Iowa pheasant hunters awaiting first heavy snow

pheasant

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa’s pheasant hunters are gearing up for the season’s first snow, as it often drives pheasants into predictable cover, creating prime hunting conditions.

However, heavy snow can have the opposite effect, burying vital food sources and collapsing habitat. From 2007 to 2011, harsh winters and wet springs led to a record low in Iowa’s pheasant population.

In response, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Pheasants Forever developed the Pheasant SAFE program.

This initiative combines winter cover, food plots, and nesting habitats into single CRP fields to provide year-round support for wildlife.

The program reduces bird movement during winter, improving survival rates and nesting success. With over 494,000 acres enrolled in SAFE practices, landowners are helping pheasants thrive even during harsh conditions.

The Iowa DNR and Pheasants Forever are also celebrating 100 years of pheasant hunting. Hunters can purchase a commemorative hard card and prepare for the 2025 season.