Iowa Code § 481A.5: State game refuges.

1. The commission may establish state game refuges or sanctuaries on any land owned by the state of Iowa suitable for this purpose when necessary for the preservation of biological balance pursuant to the provisions of section 481A.39, for the protection of public parks, for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare, or to effect sound wildlife management.

2. In emergency situations when the maintenance of the biological balance as provided in section 481A.39 is threatened, the director may establish temporary state game refuges in conformity with sound wildlife management. The establishment of a temporary refuge shall be accomplished by posting notices in conspicuous places around the refuge. The establishment of a temporary refuge by the director shall be effective until five days after the next meeting of the commission or for such longer time as the commission may determine is necessary to maintain a biological balance as provided in section 481A.39 and to effect sound wildlife management.