Hunters Encouraged to Learn About CWD, Enjoy Time A field

Research shows that 25 percent of hunters hunt primarily for the meat. Others go a field mainly for recreation, enjoying nature or simply spending time with family and friends.

No matter your motivation, all deer and elk hunters this fall should be prepared in case of that lucky opportunity to fill your freezer with savory venison. Such preparation includes knowing basic facts about chronic wasting disease (CWD).

CWD has captured headlines in recent years but, unfortunately, some media coverage has led to unnecessary hysteria. The essential fact is that, according to public health agencies and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no evidence suggesting that CWD is transmissible to humans.

The disease is still being studied. Until scientists thoroughly understand CWD, hunters should be prudent when handling game from areas where the disease has been identified. Don’t harvest animals that look sick. Avoid handling body parts where the disease agent concentrates—lymph nodes, spinal cord and brain. Hunters can have their animal tested for CWD and should avoid eating meat from any animal that tests positive.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) is one of many partners supporting the CWD Alliance, a collaborative project to help hunters learn more about the disease. Visit www.cwd-info.org.

The CWD Alliance is distributing a new video showing field dressing and meat processing techniques. Produced by American Outdoor Productions, the DVD-format video explores the realities of the disease and how hunters can continue to enjoy their time a field. “Shedding Light on Chronic Wasting Disease” may be ordered through the CWD Alliance website. The cost is $9.95 plus $2.00 shipping/handling.