JOHNSON CO., Iowa (KCRG) - Thousands of hunters are expected to participate in Iowa’s shotgun deer season opener this weekend, with safety officials reporting a significant decrease in hunting-related injuries over recent decades.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources estimates around nine hunters are hurt in accidents each year, with one hunter dying annually on average. This improvement is particularly notable when compared to previous decades before mandatory hunter safety training was implemented.

As hunters prepare for the opening weekend, Alberto Lacayo of Cedar Rapids spent his afternoon at the gun range at Hawkeye Wildlife Management, focusing on the upcoming season.

“I’ll be going out and hunting with the family,” Lacayo said.

Lacayo has five children, two of whom are now o

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