DNR shows how hunting helps slow spread of CWD

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says that hunting is one of the best ways to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD).

CWD has been detected in over half the counties in Wisconsin, and the DNR is asking hunters for help in monitoring and slowing the spread of the disease.

The DNR asks hunters to consider submitting a sample of deer harvests for testing, especially if hunting in one of the DNR’s priority areas. These are locations with newer detections of CWD, and additional samples will help us better understand disease levels and distributions in the area.

If a harvest receives a positive test result, a replacement authorization will be issued to the corresponding Go Wild account within two to four days. If the positive result is from an antlered harvest, the replacement authorization will be for an antlered harvest, valid statewide.

New this year, if the CWD-positive test result is from an antlerless harvest, an either-sex replacement authorization will be issued for the same deer management unit (DMU) and land type.

Carcass disposal

Proper carcass waste disposal helps slow the spread of CWD by removing potentially infected deer waste from the landscape. There are several disposal resources available, including deer carcass disposal dumpsters, landfills, or transfer stations.

The DNR’s CWD Sample and Disposal Locations map can help hunters find the most convenient CWD sampling and disposal locations. More locations will be added leading up to the nine-day gun season.