Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Help Protect NY Deer from Chronic Wasting Disease

Though no new cases of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) have been found in New York deer since 2005, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) continues to take the threat of CWD very seriously. Hunters should too. CWD is always fatal to deer. If introduced, CWD could spread rapidly and will be practically impossible to eliminate from the wild deer herd once established. Preventing CWD from entering New York is the most effective disease management strategy.

Hunters can help protect New York's deer herd from CWD by following these tips:

If you hunt outside of New York, debone or quarter your deer before bringing it back, and follow the law about importing carcasses or carcass parts from outside of New York. See CWD Regulations for Hunters
Do not use deer urine-based lures or attractant scents.
Dispose of carcass waste in a landfill, not just out on the landscape.
Report any deer that appears sick or acting abnormally.
Hunt only wild deer and support fair chase hunting principles.