The City of Oskaloosa is inviting qualified archery hunters to participate in the 2026–2027 Urban Deer Management Program, with mandatory qualification testing scheduled later this month ahead of the fall hunting season.
The urban deer season is set to run from September 20, 2026, through January 10, 2027, allowing approved hunters to harvest deer with archery equipment at designated locations within the Oskaloosa city limits.
To participate, bowhunters must successfully complete a shooting proficiency test on Saturday, August 22, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Gateway Church of the Nazarene, 140 Gateway Drive. The qualification course requires hunters to place four out of five arrows inside an eight-inch circle from 20 yards, with two attempts permitted.
Participants are required to bring a valid photo ID, a current Iowa hunting license, and the bow and equipment they intend to use during the season.
Hunters planning to use a crossbow must arrange qualification with Sergeant DeKleine in advance or attend the August 22 testing session with their own crossbow target.
Anyone unable to attend because of the shortened notice is encouraged to contact Sergeant DeKleine as soon as possible to discuss possible alternate qualification arrangements.
According to the Oskaloosa Police Department, hunters participating in last year’s Urban Deer Management Program harvested 20 deer within the city limits. Officials hope additional qualified hunters will take part in this year’s effort to help manage the local deer population.
For more information, contact the Oskaloosa Police Department at (641) 672-2557 or email jdekleine@oskaloosaiowa.org.
Source: Oskaloosa Police Department Facebook Page.
