Wisconsin DNR asks deer hunters to help slow the spread of chronic wasting disease

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking deer hunters and the public to help slow the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) by following baiting and feeding bans and properly disposing of deer carcass waste this hunting season, officials said on Monday, Oct. 11.

Officials say placing bait to hunt deer or feed deer for viewing is banned by state law in certain counties due to CWD. In counties where CWD has not been found, hunters can still choose not to bait and help reduce the risk of CWD transmission. You can check county baiting and feeding bans by clicking here.  

According to the DNR, counties fall under a three-year baiting and feeding ban when wild or farm-raised deer have tested for CWD. If the CWD-positive deer is found within 10 miles of a county line, the adjoining county will fall under a two-year ban. If additional cases are found during the lifetime of a ban, the ban will reset for an additional two to three years.

The following precautions should be taken in counties where baiting and feeding is allowed, according to the DNR:

• Feeding devices and structures are at a sufficient height or design to prevent access by deer
• Make sure feeding structures and devices are no further than 50 yards from a dwelling devoted to human occupancy
• If deer, bear, or elk are using bird feeding devices or structures, the devices or structures shall be enclosed or elevated higher to prevent access