Several new laws and regulations were passed by the Iowa Legislature and signed by Governor Kim Reynolds to start on July 1st are focused on the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

DNR Conservation Officer Aaron Arthur says one of the new laws makes it even across the board for youth who want to trap fur bearing animals. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio the new law allows youth under 16 years old to trap fur bearing animals with a proper licensed adult, which makes it the same as all other hunting regulations for youth.

“Plus, it’s giving the opportunity for youth to get out there with somebody that is knowledgeable in trapping. Trappings kind of going by the wayside, not as popular as it has been because of the (lower) fur prices. This also gives people who want to get into trapping that are under 16 an opportunity to learn from somebody that knows the rules and can do it correctly and learn it the right way.”    

Arthur notes another new law as increased fines for individuals found to be hunting on private property. While Arthur says these situations haven’t been a huge issue in Greene County, it can still serve as a deterrent.

“And it’s probably due to people wanting that, which is a great thing. You also can be arrested for trespassing that was another thing they added into there on top of not being a fine if you do not leave the area, you can also be arrested and taken to jail for trespassing.”

Arthur adds trespassing typically comes from the landowner with their cooperation. He says if the landowner decides to press charges, then he will help facilitate that. Click here to see all of the new laws that are DNR-related.