BONNER FERRY COUNTY, Idaho – Two additional white-tailed deer have tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Bonners Ferry.
According to a press release from Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG), the results for 11 remaining samples are pending. The positive tests were found in deer harvested within less than one mile of the original detection of CWD.
“While we are disappointed to find additional positive detections in the Panhandle, we are thankful there weren’t more, and we remain hopeful we’ve detected CWD early enough to effectively slow its spread,” Carson Watkins, Panhandle Regional Supervisor, said. “Through this process, the engagement and support of the Boundary County community has been outstanding, as expected. We want to thank everyone who participated in the surveillance hunt or attended one of our Community Chat meetings—we couldn’t do this without you.”
The two new cases were found in deer harvested less than a mile from the initial detection site. The samples taken during the surveillance hunt covered a wide area, indicating that the disease may not be widespread at this time.
A total of 172 samples were collected through the surveillance hunt and private land management efforts, falling short of the goal of 200. However, IDFG believes the data will still provide reliable insights for managing the situation. A prevalence estimate will be calculated and shared once the remaining test results come in.
