Summary of results from chronic wasting disease surveillance hunt in Unit 1

Sample results from the recent chronic wasting disease surveillance hunt in a portion of Unit 1 yielded two additional white-tailed deer that tested positive for CWD; results are pending from 11 remaining samples. Idaho Fish and Game and the Commission are discussing next steps in light of the additional detections.

In response to news of the additional CWD detections, Carson Watkins, Panhandle Regional Supervisor said, “While we are disappointed to find additional positive detections in the Panhandle, we are thankful there weren’t more, and we remain hopeful we’ve detected CWD early enough to effectively slow its spread. Through this process, the engagement and support of the Boundary County community has been outstanding, as expected. We want to thank everyone who participated in the surveillance hunt or attended one of our Community Chat meetings--we couldn’t do this without you.”

The two additional positive detections were found in deer that were harvested within less than one-mile of the original CWD detection. The geographic distribution of samples received from deer harvested during the surveillance hunt was expansive, covering all portions of the hunt boundary. The close proximity of these two subsequent detections to the original is good news. It suggests that Fish and Game detected the disease early and that it is not widespread at this time.

The surveillance hunt, in combination with private land disease management kill authorizations, yielded a total of 172 samples that were submitted for CWD testing. Although 172 is short of the goal of 200 samples, Fish and Game is confident the resulting prevalence estimate will carry the reliability and precision necessary to inform management decisions by the Commission. Disease prevalence will be calculated and released once results from the remaining 11 samples are back from the lab.

Fish and Game recognizes there are likely many new questions about the test results and potential paths forward. As such, there will be another Community Chat meeting on Oct. 8 from 6-8 p.m. at the U.S. Forest Service Bonners Ferry Ranger District Office. As in past meetings, Fish and Game staff will be there to share updates, answer questions and hear feedback from the local public.

Additional information will be released in the days and weeks ahead as it pertains to ongoing management of CWD in the Panhandle Region.

If you would like to learn more about CWD, please visit our CWD in Idaho webpage for resources and videos.

Please contact the Panhandle Regional office at (208) 769-1414 with questions or concerns. 

You can also follow the Panhandle Region Facebook page to get regular news and updates.