A Tama man is recovering from injuries suffered while pheasant hunting in rural Poweshiek County today, state conservation law enforcement officials said.

James Harris, 37, was hunting approximately three to four miles north of Grinnell when the accident happened around 3:15 p.m. today. Authorities said the group had shot a bird, which landed across a fence on adjoining property. Harris reportedly went to retrieve the bird, placed his gun on the ground and crossed the fence near the muzzle end. When he crossed the fence, hunting dogs stepped on the gun, which discharged and struck Harris in the left calf at a distance of roughly three feet.

Harris was treated at Grinnell Regional Medical Center and later transported by helicopter to University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City.

The incident remains under investigation.