Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in Western Minnesota: First Case Near South Dakota Border Triggers New Measures
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is expressing concern following the discovery of the first-ever chronic wasting disease (CWD) case in the western portion of the state near the Minnesota-South Dakota border. A buck harvested during the opening weekend of firearms season near Wheaton in Traverse County tested positive for CWD, marking the first instance of the disease’s presence in this region.
Wildlife health supervisor Erik Hildebrand described the discovery as “unwelcome news” while emphasizing the importance of surveillance efforts in monitoring and responding to the disease’s spread. “It’s always a surprise when we get a new area and it’s very unfortunate. This is not good news by any means,” said Hildebrand.
The buck was harvested in Deer Permit Area 271, an area that includes all of Traverse County and small portions of northern Big Stone and Wilkin counties. This region is characterized by heavily farmed lands and limited public habitat, making it particularly susceptible to deer population changes.
New Response Measures to Contain the Disease
In response to the discovery, the DNR will implement several measures under its CWD response plan, including:
- Three consecutive years of testing: Hunter-harvested deer in the affected areas will undergo testing to assess the disease’s prevalence.
- Carcass movement restrictions and deer feeding bans: Both measures aim to minimize the disease’s spread.
- Deer attractant restrictions: Prohibiting scents and other deer attractants could limit disease movement.
- Potential increased hunting opportunities: Bag limits may be adjusted to assess deer populations and determine disease spread.
The DNR will also coordinate with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and North Dakota Game and Fish Department to enhance surveillance and management efforts.
CWD: An Ongoing Threat Without a Cure
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological illness affecting deer, elk, and moose populations. With no known cure, the disease continues to spread across states, and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises hunters not to consume meat from infected animals.
This new detection marks the first time CWD has appeared in western Minnesota and will lead to a significant change in hunting practices and state surveillance efforts.
While this finding highlights the challenges wildlife officials face in managing disease spread, Hildebrand underscored that proactive testing and collaboration with neighboring states will be vital for containing CWD. “This discovery highlights the importance of disease surveillance and allowing hunters to test deer harvested across Minnesota,” Hildebrand concluded.
The DNR will closely monitor this situation over the coming years to determine the potential impact on the state’s deer populations. This new development signals a turning point in CWD management for Minnesota, with stricter regulations expected to combat further disease transmission.
References
- DNR disappointed by first CWD case near Minnesota-South Dakota border – KFGO – (Accessed on Dec 14, 2024)
- Chronic Wasting Disease found in deer near Wheaton – will Marradio – (Accessed on Dec 14, 2024)
- CWD-infected deer harvested in west-central Minnesota – Echo Journal – (Accessed on Dec 14, 2024)
- Chronic wasting disease pops up in a whitetail deer near Wheaton – Star Tribune – (Accessed on Dec 14, 2024)
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