White-tailed deer (odocoileus virginianus) feeding in a Wisconsin hay field in early September, panorama
You may have heard that Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) was discovered in Ohio’s wild deer herd in Allen, Hardin, Marion, and Wyandot counties. CWD is a fatal neurological (brain and central nervous system) disease that affects members of the deer family including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, and caribou. Once an animal is infected there is no recovery or cure for CWD. Effective management of this disease relies on lowering deer density in and endemic area to mitigate the spread of the disease. Below is a link to information about CWD.
To help landowners actively participate in the management of this disease the Ohio Division of Wildlife is reaching out to selected landowners within 2 miles of deer that have tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Details of how to apply for this permit are in the attached letter. This opportunity is not only a way to help with disease management but may also to help minimize crop and property damage.
This permit will be valid only on private property within the following townships in Allen, Crawford, Hardin, Marion, Union, and Wyandot counties:
- Allen County: Auglaize, Jackson
- Hardin County: All townships
- Marion County: All townships
- Wyandot County: All townships
- Crawford: Bucyrus, Dallas, Tod
- Union: Claibourne, Jackson
If you are interested in this program, see this letter from the Ohio Division of Wildlife for more information and instructions.