Similar to other areas across the state, deer areas 157 and 171 in the Lander Region have been the focus of intensive chronic wasting disease (CWD) sampling this year with the aim of estimating prevalence and providing insight for future management decisions.

About 100 samples have been collected from both mule deer and white-tailed deer, and preliminary results show that over half of mule deer bucks in these areas are testing positive for CWD.  Just like other parts of the state, the number of white-tail deer and does from both species that have tested positive are lower. 

Regional Wildlife Coordinator Daryl Lutz says, “Not having received many samples from these areas in the past, we didn’t have a good idea what to expect. Needless to say, we have been surprised at the number of positives we have seen so far.” 

Samples will continue to be collected through November in white-tailed deer and final results will be out early next year. There are many ways hunters can have their sample taken: calling or coming by the Lander Regional Office, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday (307-332-2688), or by letting your game processor know you would like samples taken and they will save the head for collection by Game and Fish.