By Scout Nelson
A deer near Wheaton, Minnesota, has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD), marking the first detection in a wild deer in the area. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported the case after a buck was harvested during the opening weekend of firearms season in November in Deer Permit Area (DPA) 271, along Minnesota’s border with South Dakota.
"This discovery in western Minnesota, while unwelcome news, highlights the importance and necessity of our disease surveillance efforts and allowing hunters to test deer harvested anywhere in the state if they would like to," said the DNR wildlife health supervisor in a news release.
Management Actions Initiated
The detection triggered the DNR's CWD response plan, which includes three years of testing to estimate the disease’s prevalence in DPA 271 and surrounding areas. The DNR will collaborate with wildlife agencies in South Dakota and North Dakota to coordinate surveillance and management efforts.
To mitigate the disease's spread, the DNR enforces restrictions on carcass movement, bans deer feeding and attractants, and may implement special hunts with increased bag limits. The adult male deer that tested positive was harvested during the breeding season, a time when deer typically travel long distances.
Understanding Chronic Wasting Disease
CWD is a fatal neurodegenerative disease caused by misfolded proteins called prions. It affects cervids such as deer and elk and spreads through direct contact or environmental contamination. While there is no evidence of CWD infecting humans, health authorities advise against consuming meat from sick animals and recommend precautions when handling carcasses.
The DNR will continue disease surveillance in the fall of 2025 before deciding on additional management actions. The discovery emphasizes the importance of proactive wildlife health measures to protect the region’s deer population.
Photo Credit:pexels-jim-fawns
Categories: Minnesota, General