The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is again asking hunters to help track and monitor the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in the state’s deer population. Participation is as easy as contacting their local DNR wildlife biologist following a harvest to arrange for a sample to be taken. At the end of last winter’s deer seasons, 12 counties have confirmed CWD cases in their native deer populations, including most recently in Greene and Fremont Counties. CWD is an incurable prion disease similar to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or mad cow disease, caused by a misfolded protein. If quotas have been filled, hunters can still submit samples through the system in partnership with Iowa State University (ISU), but it does come with a $25 fee. CWD affects deer, elk, moose, and other cervids and is typically transmitted via saliva, nasal mucus, and other secretions. The DNR is hosting a statewide virtual meeting on CWD on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., where staff will educate Iowans on the science of the disease, its status in Iowa, and current management practices. More information on CWD and registration details for the Nov. 29 meeting are included with this story on our website.
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Chronic Wasting Disease in Iowa | Iowa DNR
Surveillance & Results, Iowa DNR
https://bit.ly/3FIgc4G
