Recognizing the challenge posed by chronic wasting disease in Michigan’s white-tailed deer population, the Natural Resources Commission has adopted a resolution to engage the scientific community to help identify practices that address the threat.
The resolution seeks to involve scientists and experts “to advise the NRC, the DNR or other agencies on actions which could substantially mitigate or eliminate CWD in Michigan.”
Chronic wasting disease was first discovered two years ago in free-ranging deer in Michigan. It is a contagious neurological disease affecting deer, elk and moose causing degeneration of the brain and resulting in emaciation, abnormal behavior, loss of bodily functions and death. There is no known connection between CWD and human health.
Scientists will be selected by the NRC chairman and the directors of the departments of Natural Resources and Agriculture and Rural Development.
The scientists are expected to deliver recommendations by Dec. 31, 2017.
“Michigan’s white-tailed deer are a critical part of the state’s hunting culture and tradition, as well as the state and local economies supported by those who annually take part in the tradition,” said Keith Creagh, DNR director. “Since the first CWD finding in Michigan, the DNR has taken aggressive steps to contain and address this threat to our deer population. We look forward to working with this group to continue that effort.”