Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in Unit 15: A New Challenge for Wildlife Management Near Grangeville
In a worrying development for local wildlife populations, a white-tailed buck harvested in Unit 15, south of Grangeville, has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD). This marks the first positive test for CWD in this hunting unit, although its proximity to previously confirmed cases raises alarms about the disease’s growing presence in the region.
The buck was killed approximately 20 miles from Slate Creek, the epicenter of Idaho’s CWD surveillance, where the disease was first identified in 2021. Since then, multiple deer and elk in this area have been diagnosed with the illness. Notably, recent years have seen an uptick in CWD cases expanding from White Bird eastward toward Grangeville, creating increasing concern among wildlife managers and conservationists alike.
“It’s not terribly surprising because it’s a pretty logical progression,” said Jana Ashling, Clearwater Region Wildlife Manager for Fish and Game. “Our radio collar data indicates that animal movements are frequent across these landscapes.”
Understanding CWD: A Threat to Deer Populations
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological affliction that affects members of the cervid family, including deer, elk, and moose. The disease is characterized by progressive weight loss, behavioral changes, and ultimately death. As a prion disease, CWD is contagious and cannot be eradicated once it enters an ecosystem; the prions can persist in the environment for years.
Fish and Game’s top priority is to maintain a low prevalence rate of CWD in affected herds, as this is crucial for sustaining healthy big game populations. With more than 5,600 samples from deer and elk tested in 2025, this marked the first detection of CWD outside of traditional hotspots, such as Units 1, 14, 18, and 23.
What’s Next for Wildlife Management?
The discovery in Unit 15 complicates CWD management strategies and prompts the Fish and Game Commission to reassess their approach moving forward. Management tactics typically adapt annually based on new findings, and this latest detection will undoubtedly inform ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of CWD across the state.
For hunters, this news is particularly critical. Not only does it affect the current hunting season, but it also necessitates increased vigilance regarding deer health and testing protocols.
Why It Matters
The implications of CWD extend well beyond immediate wildlife health concerns. For hunters, the risk of encountering infected animals could signal potential shifts in hunting success rates and regulations. In areas heavily impacted by CWD, hunter participation and local economies that rely on outdoor recreation could be significantly affected.
Field Insights: What to Watch For
As this situation evolves, hunters, hikers, and conservationists alike must remain informed and proactive. Here are a few tips for navigating potential CWD exposure:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates on CWD from local Fish and Game departments to understand the evolving landscape of this disease.
- Practice Safe Harvesting: If you hunt in areas known for CWD, ensure you have your harvested animals tested before consumption.
- Dispose of Carcasses Properly: Follow local guidelines for carcass disposal to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Report Suspicious Behavior: If you observe unhealthy animals – those exhibiting drastic weight loss or unusual behavior – report them to local wildlife authorities.
For more details on CWD monitoring and management strategies statewide, visit the CWD webpage.
As wildlife enthusiasts and advocates, we must work collaboratively to safeguard the health of our big game populations and the ecosystems they inhabit. The detection of CWD in Unit 15 serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing challenges facing our natural resources and the importance of responsible stewardship in maintaining biodiversity.