Georgia DNR Officials Announce Steps to Address Chronic Wasting Disease in Deer Population

Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced measures to combat Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a deadly brain disease often referred to as “Zombie Deer Disease.” This comes after a deer harvested in South Georgia tested positive, marking the state’s first confirmed case of the disease. The DNR’s plan, which involves voluntary testing and increased monitoring, is designed to prevent the disease from spreading further.

Voluntary Testing for Hunters

Starting next deer season, hunters in South Georgia will have the option to test deer they harvest for CWD. The DNR plans to set up self-serve freezer drop-off locations where hunters can leave deer heads for testing. According to Tina Johansson, Assistant Chief of Game Management at DNR, this process will make testing accessible while maintaining the flexibility hunters value.

“We’re not requiring mandatory testing,” Johansson clarified. “But we encourage hunters to utilize these freezers to help us monitor the spread of this disease.”

Infected deer may appear healthy for months, even years, before showing symptoms like weight loss, lack of coordination, and lethargy. By the time these symptoms appear, the disease has already spread through saliva, urine, feces, and even decaying carcasses.

Understanding Chronic Wasting Disease

CWD is caused by prions—misfolded proteins that lead to severe brain damage in deer, elk, and moose. These prions accumulate in the brain over 18 to 30 months, causing fatal neurological symptoms. The disease is not caused by bacteria or viruses, which makes it particularly difficult to manage.

Once these prions are shed into the environment, they can remain infectious indefinitely, posing a long-term risk to wildlife. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states there are no known cases of CWD transmission to humans, it strongly advises against consuming meat from infected animals.

Why Hunters Play a Critical Role

Hunting is not only a tradition in Georgia but also a significant contributor to the state’s economy, generating $1.6 billion annually and supporting over 150,000 jobs. To ensure the future of hunting and wildlife conservation, the DNR emphasizes the importance of collaboration between hunters, lawmakers, and conservationists.

DNR Deputy Commissioner Trevor Santos reassured the public:
“This is not the end of deer hunting in Georgia. Together, we can manage this disease and maintain a healthy deer population.”

Baiting Ban Sparks Debate

One controversial issue surrounding CWD management is baiting deer, which involves using feed like corn to attract them. Critics argue that baiting increases the risk of disease transmission as it encourages deer to congregate in one place. Environmentalists, like Mark Woodall from the Sierra Club, have called for a ban on baiting, stating that the practice contradicts scientific recommendations.

However, the DNR has chosen not to enforce a baiting ban at this time. Instead, they will focus on education and voluntary measures to address the issue.

Learning from Other States

Georgia is the 36th state to detect CWD, giving it an advantage in preparing containment strategies. By studying other states’ responses, the DNR hopes to adapt its approach as new challenges arise.

“Surveillance and adaptive management are key,” Johansson explained. “We’ve been monitoring for CWD for 20 years, and while eradication may not be possible, early detection allows us to take proactive steps.”

What This Means for Georgia’s Wildlife

CWD poses a significant threat to Georgia’s deer population and its delicate ecosystems. The disease disrupts the natural balance, impacting not only deer but also predators and scavengers that rely on them for food.

Testing efforts will extend beyond hunters to include meat processors and taxidermists. Samples will be analyzed at the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine, with results available within two weeks. Hunters can keep antlers even if the deer is tested.

What’s Next for Georgia?

While the DNR’s immediate focus is on South Georgia counties like Lanier and Berrien, officials expect the management area to expand as the disease spreads. Continued surveillance and community cooperation will be vital to containing the disease and minimizing its impact.

Hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike are urged to remain vigilant and report any deer showing unusual behavior. Through collective efforts, Georgia hopes to protect its wildlife and preserve its rich hunting traditions for future generations.

---

Key Takeaways for Hunters and Residents

• Voluntary testing through self-serve freezer drop-off locations will be available in South Georgia.
• Avoid baiting practices that encourage deer to gather in one place.
• Do not consume meat from deer that test positive for CWD.
• Report any sightings of sick or abnormal deer to the DNR immediately.

By staying informed and involved, hunters can play a crucial role in preserving Georgia’s deer population and combating the spread of “Zombie Deer Disease.”

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

About The Author