While hunting season may be starting to wind down, the province is still looking to identify cases of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The disease is a fatal, infectious one that affects the central nervous system of deer, elk, moose and caribou. There is no known cure.  

So far this year, the province has identified 84 cases of the disease. It is tracked by hunters submitting the heads of animals to be tested. The information is then used to see how the disease is impacting wildlife populations in Saskatchewan. 

“Despite the challenges and changes we’ve all had to face in 2020, more than 1,300 heads have already been submitted as part of the ministry’s voluntary CWD surveillance program,” Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said. “Identifying the presence and spread of CWD in the province will help guide the development of disease management plans.” 

Wildlife management zones 2W, 9, 10, 35 and 37 are of importance this year, and hunters in those areas are asked to submit heads from mule and white-tailed deer. However, testing is available for all cervids from across Saskatchewan. 

To date, there have been no known instances of humans contracting CWD, although it is recommended hunters avoid eating the meat until after test results have been received. As well, people are strongly urged to not eat, or distribute, the meat or other parts from animals that have tested positive for CWD. 

The deadline for the submission of animal heads for testing is January 21st. You can find a list of drop-off sites here.