BONNERS FERRY, Idaho — North Idaho’s first confirmed case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been detected near Bonners Ferry.
According to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG), recent test results confirmed a positive case of CWD in an adult female white-tailed deer found approximately 3 miles outside of Bonners Ferry in Hunting Unit 1. The deer, discovered by a landowner in early July, marks the first known case of CWD in north Idaho.
“While we are disappointed by the detection of CWD in north Idaho, the department is well-prepared to address the situation thanks to our comprehensive Chronic Wasting Disease Strategy, ongoing sampling efforts, and experience managing affected populations elsewhere in the state,” said Panhandle Regional Supervisor Carson Watkins. “Moving forward, we will work closely with the Boundary County community to develop a long-term management plan for CWD.”
The department plans to sample as many deer and elk as possible to assess the extent of the disease. You can request a CWD sample kit here.
