It’s no secret that the increasing spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) seriously threatens whitetail deer populations across North America. As no treatment or cure currently exists, many states have begun to take preventative measures to slow and control the spread of this destructive disease.

During a recent episode of the National Land Podcast, biologist with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Jay Cantrell outlined a few ways states today are managing chronic wasting disease.

Here’s what to know!

Why is CWD So Dangerous?

The overall resilience and effective transmission of CWD make it especially dangerous. CWD can be spread between animals through direct contact, but it can also happen indirectly through the environment via plants and soils. This indirect transmission makes managing contaminated areas very difficult since CWD can stay active in the soil for years. 

The symptoms also take time to manifest, meaning infected animals can carry and spread CWD for a while before succumbing to the disease. With no effective treatment or vaccine currently available, many states are focused on controlling and preventing any undue spread of CWD.

How Are States Managing Chronic Wasting Disease?

Here are a few ways that different states are attempting to stop the spread of CWD. These measures vary state-by-state but are all representative of the common understanding that the best way to protect whitetail populations and habitats from CWD is to prevent it from spreading to uninfected areas as much as possible.

Import Bans

A common strategy employed by many states to slow the spread of CWD is imposing import bans on high-risk carcasses harvested in other states. By banning the transport of these animals between states, local governments can reduce the chances of uncontaminated areas being exposed to infected animals.

There are also states that have banned importing lab deer or animals from deer breeding or farming programs. According to Cantrell, one of the most likely ways CWD gets across state lines is via a live deer in a livestock trailer, so these bans look to put a stop to unnecessary transmission via imported deer.

Similarly, some states have instituted bans on the use of deer urine-based attractants. Deer urine is frequently used by hunters to lure deer and is also a common ingredient in many store-bought attractants. This urine can carry the prions that cause CWD and can facilitate the spread of the disease, so bans on deer urine and products that use it are an attempt to lock down and regulate another transmission pathway.

Public Education and Outreach

Another crucial aspect of CWD management is public education. Many states have begun working with processors, taxidermists, and outdoor outfitters to promote educational messaging about CWD. By warning hunters about the dangers of spreading CWD, preventative practices, and actions to avoid, state governments aim to encourage safe hunting and keep hunters from unknowingly spreading the disease.

Regular Sample Testing

Many state governments have partnered with local taxidermists in order to increase regular testing and stay abreast of developments within their borders. Since CWD is most easily identifiable in adult bucks, government agencies are working closely with taxidermists to regularly collect and test samples from bucks brought in for taxidermy. This proactive approach gives government officials a better chance of identifying a CWD outbreak early and containing it before it spreads.

CWD Outbreak Plan

In the event of a CWD outbreak, a comprehensive disease management plan is essential to prevent it from spreading further. By setting up disease management zones, officials can closely monitor everything that enters and exits an infected area to slow and contain the spread. Being prepared and having a plan in place can significantly reduce the spread of CWD and put government entities in a better position to respond swiftly when outbreaks occur.

Efforts to combat chronic wasting disease are ongoing as research into a vaccine continues, but it’s clear that many states are treating this issue with the attention and care it deserves. By using various import bans, public education, and collaborating with local service providers, state governments have taken steps to address CWD as best they can for now. Continued cooperation between hunters, wildlife officials, and the general public will be paramount to protecting whitetail deer populations and habitats for years to come. 

If you’ve got questions about CWD in your area, get in touch with your local Land Professional today!