CWD continues spread in western North Dakota in 2024; management remains controversial topic

Chronic wasting disease is creeping further into North Dakota, now reaching two new hunting units. Wildlife officials warn that as infection rates climb, the disease could take a toll on the state’s deer population—and the multi-million-dollar hunting industry that depends on it. But not everyone agrees on how serious the threat is or how to manage it. A new bill could roll back baiting restrictions meant to slow CWD’s spread, forcing Game and Fish to rethink its approach. As the debate heats up, hunters will play a key role in what happens next.

That’s the recap from the Bismarck Tribune’s coverage which is a comprehensive catch-up story on the topic. I’ve been covering this regularly here on TheMiinotVoice because the topic is so vital and so demonstrative of our times. There is clear evidence on what is happening right in front of us, our wild life officials are sharing it, but for some reason, it’s not getting through to our lawmakers and they’re steering us in a dangerous direction.