Chronic waste disease sampling required in some areas

Key Points:

• The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is implementing mandatory chronic wasting disease (CWD) sampling for all deer aged one year or older harvested during the firearms deer season opening weekend in southwest Minnesota on Nov. 7-8, 2026, as part of a new four-year statewide rotational surveillance plan.
• This rotational surveillance divides the state into four blocks, requiring hunters in one block each year to submit deer for CWD testing, aiming to provide a more comprehensive understanding of CWD distribution beyond previously targeted high-risk areas.
• Hunters can submit samples via staffed or self-service stations, free mail-in kits, or through participating taxidermists and processors, with detailed instructions and resources available on the Minnesota DNR website.
• The DNR has replaced carcass movement restrictions within CWD management zones with a carcass disposal rule, allowing more flexibility in transporting deer carcasses provided they are disposed of properly at landfills, with refuse haulers, meat processors, or onsite with landowner permission.
• Hunters are encouraged to purchase their deer licenses early due to a new electronic licensing system launched in June, which may require additional time for first-time users and those transferring records; licenses can be bought via mobile app, online, or in person, with details available on the Minnesota DNR website.