WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWNY) – The state Department of Environmental Protection announced a confirmed case of chronic wasting disease (CWD), which affects the brain and nervous system of deer, elk and moose.
A Sunday afternoon press release from DEC said the disease was detected at “a facility in the Region 6 area in December.”
Region 6 includes the northern counties of Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence, as well as Herkimer and Oneida counties.
The infected samples were collected as part of routine testing conducted by the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. “At this time, there is no evidence that CWD exists in wild deer,” the press release states.
Although there is no strong evidence that CWD can be transmitted to humans, “people should not eat meat from infected animals,” the press release states.
The state is increasing sampling and monitoring of wild deer and asking for help from hunters and the public. “We encourage people to report this to DEC if possible.” For collection and testing, contact the DEC Region 6 Wildlife Office at 315-785-2263 or email Information.R6@dec.ny.gov. ”
CWD is deadly to deer populations, but its spread has been slow in New York. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) detected cases in both wild and captive deer in 2005, but as of Sunday’s announcement, it had not detected any new cases in nearly 20 years, with a total of 65,000 deer. of wild deer were tested.
DEC provided tips for minimizing the risks from CWD.
– If you hunt any type of deer, elk, elk, or caribou outside of New York State, be sure to debone your harvest before bringing it back to the state. DEC will confiscate and destroy illegally imported carcasses and parts.
– Avoid deer urine-based attractants and attractant scents as they may contain infectious substances. If you use lures, use synthetic fibers.
– Dispose of carcass waste in a landfill rather than outside the landscape.
– To report a deer that is sick, unusually thin, or exhibiting unusual behavior, contact your local DEC Regional Wildlife Office or Conservation Officer.
– We only hunt wild deer and support the principles of fair pursuit hunting.
– Don’t eat sick prey.
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