Arizona remains free of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). In 2022, AZGFD collected and tested 1,199 deer and elk samples, and no cases of CWD were detected. This is great news for Arizona’s wildlife and hunting community.
CWD is a contagious and fatal disease that affects deer, elk, and moose. The disease attacks the nervous system of these animals, causing weight loss, stumbling, and other neurological symptoms. It is spread through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. CWD has been detected in neighboring states like Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado, but thankfully, Arizona remains free of this disease.
The AZGFD has been monitoring for CWD in Arizona since 1998. The department’s testing efforts involve partnering with hunters, game processors, and taxidermists to collect samples from harvested animals. The cooperation of these groups has been critical in AZGFD’s efforts to keep Arizona free of CWD.
Hunters who submit deer and elk heads for testing, game processors, and taxidermists are all instrumental in the fight against CWD. By participating in the testing program, they are helping AZGFD monitor the health of Arizona’s deer and elk populations. The continued success of the program depends on the support of the hunting community.
In conclusion, the AZGFD’s announcement that Arizona remains free of CWD is great news for the state’s wildlife and hunters. With neighboring states reporting cases of CWD, it is reassuring to know that Arizona’s deer and elk populations are currently free of the disease. The ongoing efforts of the AZGFD and the support of the hunting community are essential to maintain this disease-free status.
You can read more about CWD and Arizona by clicking here. Likewise, you can read more Arizona hunting news by clicking here.
