The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) mandates testing for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) among deer harvested in six counties, including Roanoke and Shenandoah, starting Saturday as the firearm season opens. DWR Deer Project Manager Justin Folks emphasizes the importance of this mandatory sampling day, as it coincides with the largest deer harvest of the year, aiming to gather crucial data that could indicate the disease’s prevalence in the area.
CWD, similar to Mad Cow Disease, poses a significant threat to deer populations, and last year Virginia reported over 100 cases—the highest to date. Hunters will be required to bring their harvested deer to designated check stations for testing and provide shooting locations, with findings reported to them afterward. The DWR also encourages hunting more does to manage deer population density, which is vital in keeping CWD in check and preventing further environmental contamination.
Read full story at www.wdbj7.com
Read the full article here