SALEM, Ore.-The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) are encouraging hunters to get deer and elk harvested during the 2025 season tested for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), to help wildlife managers detect possible cases early and prevent the spread of the disease.
Hunters who submit a CWD test will be automatically entered into a drawing for a Weatherby Vanguard 7mm Rem in First Lite Specter (valued at $1,150), courtesy of OHA.
“Hunters are a critical part of this effort, and we are grateful to OHA for offering another incentive for hunters to get their animals tested,” said Ashley Reeder, ODFW CWD coordinator.
Hunters will receive one entry per deer or elk taken between August 1, 2025 and April 1, 2026.
CWD is a deadly disease that can be contracted and spread by deer, elk, moose, and caribou in North America. According to ODFW, no cases of CWD have been reported in Oregon since the agency began testing in the late 1990’s but it has been detected in 36 states, including Washington last hunting season.
Animals with CWD can spread it for years before symptoms are shown, making early detection crucial to avoid population-level impacts on deer and elk herds, according to ODFW.
“Testing healthy-looking animals will help wildlife managers find this disease early, which is how we can slow the spread of CWD,” said Reeder.
Symptoms of CWD in deer and elk include weight loss, abnormal and unsteady movements, excessive thirst and salivation, drooping ears, and a lack of fear of people.
Anyone who harvests or sees a possibly sick deer or elk should report it to the ODFW Wildlife Health Hotline at 866.968.2600 or through email at wildlife.health@ODFW.oregon.gov
How to have a deer or elk tested for CWD in Oregon
- Make an appointment at one of 23 ODFW field offices around the state
- Submit a sample to a participating meat processor or taxidermist
- Visit a CWD check station during hunting season in Baker City, Celilo Park, Elgin and Prineville. Dates and locations for check stations are available online
