Release Date: June 18, 2018
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Media Contacts:
Leeann Duwe, Communications Specialist, 608-224-5005
Bill Cosh, Communications Director, 608-224-5020
MADISON – The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) confirms that a white-tailed deer from a breeding farm in Marinette County has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD). The National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed the test results and the farm has been quarantined. A quarantine means no animals may move in or out of the farm.
The two-year-old doe was born on the 230-acre farm and died during fawning. The fenced farm has 320 whitetail deer, according to the owner's most recent registration. The farm had not been enrolled in the CWD Herd Status Program since May 2017. Previously, the farm was enrolled in the CWD Herd Status Program since 2002. More information about CWD testing requirements for farms enrolled and non-enrolled in the program can be found on the DATCP website.
DATCP's Animal Health Division will investigate the animal's history and trace movements of deer onto and off the farm to determine whether other herds may have been exposed to the CWD-positive deer.
CWD is a fatal, neurological disease of deer, elk, and moose caused by an infectious protein that affects the animal's brain. Testing for CWD can only be performed after the deer's death. For more information about CWD visit DATCP's website. DATCP regulates deer farms for registration, recordkeeping, disease testing, movement, and permit requirements. To learn more about deer farm regulations in Wisconsin, visit DATCP's farm-raised deer program. The Department of Natural Resources also provides resources for CWD and monitors the state's wild white-tailed deer for CWD.
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