What Precautions Should Be Taken When Handling CWD Carcasses?

Handling and Disposal

When handling CWD-infected carcasses, it is essential to wear protective gear, including rubber gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and pants to prevent direct contact with the deer’s tissues. The carcass should be handled carefully to minimize the risk of spreading the disease. In the United States, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommends that hunters do not consume meat from deer that test positive for CWD. If a hunter must handle a CWD-infected carcass, they should make sure to wear protective gear and thoroughly wash their hands after handling the carcass.

Transportation and Disposal Methods

When transporting CWD-infected carcasses, hunters should use sealed containers or bags to prevent the risk of transmission to other animals. The carcass should be disposed of promptly and in a manner that prevents it from being fed to other animals. Hunters should check with their local wildlife agency for specific guidance on CWD carcass disposal in their area. In some states, CWD-infected carcasses must be disposed of through a licensed renderer or by burial in a designated CWD-infected carcass burial site.

Regulations and Education

Hunters should familiarize themselves with local regulations regarding CWD testing and disposal of infected carcasses. Many states require hunters to voluntarily submit deer heads for CWD testing, and some states have mandatory testing requirements for specific areas. Hunters should also educate themselves on the risks associated with CWD and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. This includes avoiding feeding deer, not consuming deer meat from areas with known CWD cases, and not transporting deer parts across state or provincial lines.