Chronic Wasting Disease - The Rules

Idaho Fish and Game implemented rules to reduce risk of CWD spreading throughout Idaho.

Rules to Reduce Risk of CWD Spread in Idaho

The following rules are in effect because of the threat CWD poses to the state's deer, moose, and elk.

Restrictions on the Import of Live Wild Cervids

Importation into Idaho of live cervids not regulated by the Idaho Department of Agriculture will not be permitted. This includes live mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose, and wild-origin elk.

In-State and Out-of-State CWD Carcass Transport and Possession Restrictions

It is unlawful to import, transport or possess carcasses or any part of a deer, elk, moose or caribou from a CWD-positive state or territory.

Exceptions. This section does not apply to:
  • Meat that is cut and wrapped
  • Quarters or deboned meat that does not include brain or spinal tissue
  • Edible organs that do not include brains
  • Hides without heads
  • Upper canine teeth (ivories)
  • Finished taxidermy
  • Dried antlers
  • Cleaned and dried skulls or skull caps
  • Skull caps that do not include brain or spinal tissue
  • Domestic cervids regulated under Chapter 37, Title 25, Idaho Code

Units 14 and 15 CWD Mandatory Testing and Carcass Transport

The Commission designates GMU 14 and 15 as a CWD Management Zone (wildlife are at an increased risk of acquiring CWD based on the presence of CWD-infected animals in these areas).

  • Chronic wasting disease testing is required for deer, elk, and moose harvested in Units 14 and 15. Please submit samples from animals harvested in Unit 14 or 15 to IDFG within 10 days of harvest.
  • Carcasses or any part of a deer, elk, or moose originating in a designated Idaho CWD Management Zone may not be transported out of the Zone or possessed in any portion of the state not designated a CWD Management Zone.
Exceptions. This section does not apply to:
  • A head or tissue sample, provided it is presented to the Department for sampling purposes, with the Department to keep possession for appropriate disposal.
  • Meat that is cut and wrapped
  • Quarters or deboned meat that does not include brain or spinal tissue
  • Edible organs that do not include brains
  • Hides without heads
  • Upper canine teeth (ivories)
  • Finished taxidermy
  • Dried antlers
  • Cleaned and dried skulls or skull caps
  • Skull caps that do not include brain or spinal tissue
  • Domestic cervids regulated under Chapter 37, Title 25, Idaho Code

Urine Ban

Idaho bans the use of natural cervid urine for big game hunting, which includes urine from deer, elk, moose, and caribou (reindeer).

Winter Feeding Risk Strategy

Fish and Game integrates its CWD risk strategy into winter feeding planning. Winter feeding unnaturally concentrates wildlife, increasing the risk of spreading disease.

Restrict Feeding in CWD zones

Public feeding of deer, elk, or moose in designated CWD management zones is prohibited.

Learn more about Idaho Fish & Game's rulemaking process.

 

CWD Explained in Videos

See map of states and provinces with CWD cases.

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Videos