Chronic wasting disease is yet to make its way into Oklahoma but wildlife officials are trying to keep it at bay.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) is proposing changes in the administrative rules that govern hunting, fishing and department operations. Specifically, the agency proposes to add language relating to the import, transport or possession of cervid carcasses and live cervids to help protect Oklahoma’s deer and elk populations from the threat of CWD.
“Oklahoma deer hunters may have heard about chronic wasting disease afflicting deer and elk in other states. ODWC has been following the progress of CWD for decades and is making preparations in case the disease is detected in the state’s wild herd,” said Micah Holmes, ODWC information officer.
CWD is a neurological disease that attacks the brains of deer, elk, moose and other members of the deer family, creating holes that resemble those in sponges. It is always fatal to the animal, and no treatment or vaccine against CWD exists.
CWD has been confirmed in wild deer and elk in every state surrounding Oklahoma.
Go here to find more information about the proposal, leave an online comment or see the public meeting schedule.
(Photo source: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation)