The Wyoming Game and Fish Department confirmed chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Deer Hunt Area 17 northwest of Gillette. The buck mule deer was reported by a landowner who had concerns that it did not seem healthy. A Game and Fish biologist euthanized the animal. This is the first time CWD has been found in Deer Hunt Area 17, which is bordered on the east and west by deer hunt areas where CWD has been found as early as 2007.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission approved an updated CWD Management Plan in April. The Game and Fish is implementing that plan, which includes increasing monitoring for the disease.

“If you see a deer, elk or moose that appears to be sick or not acting in a normal manner, please contact your local game warden, wildlife biologist or Game and Fish office immediately,” said Scott Edberg, deputy chief of the wildlife division. Game and Fish personnel have collected and analyzed more than 2,900 CWD samples statewide so far in 2016. Game and Fish also reminds hunters they play a significant role in monitoring the distribution of this disease and provide valuable information for managing CWD.  

This is the ninth new deer hunt area found with CWD in 2016. There are specific regulations related to transportation of deer, elk and moose harvested in hunt areas where CWD is known to exist. Please visit the Game and Fish website for more information on chronic wasting disease transmission and regulations on transportation and disposal of carcasses. The Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization recommend that people should not eat deer, elk or moose that test positive for CWD.