Deer Disease Alert: What You Need to Know

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has issued a serious alert after detecting a deer with chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Concordia Parish.

What is Chronic Wasting Disease?

• Deadly and Infectious: CWD is a fatal disease with no known cure.
• Always Fatal: Once a deer contracts it, it will always die.
• Highly Contagious: The disease spreads easily among deer populations.

New Rules to Prevent Spread

Starting February 1st, new regulations will be in place:

• Prohibition on Leaving Certain Deer Parts: Hunters cannot leave specific parts of deer carcasses in affected areas.
• Ban on Feeding or Baiting Deer: Feeding or baiting deer is now prohibited in these zones.

Affected Areas

• Entire Parishes: Catahoula and Concordia.
• Partial Parishes: Avoyelles, LaSalle, Pointe Coupee, and Rapides.

Why These Rules Matter

• Preventing Further Spread: CWD can devastate deer populations if uncontrolled.
• Strict but Necessary: The rules may seem harsh, but they are crucial for conservation.

Public Responsibility

• Hunters and Nature Enthusiasts: Must follow the new regulations.
• Stay Informed: Keeping updated and adhering to guidelines helps protect wildlife and the environment.