Oregon Hunters Encouraged To Check For CWD

Deer and elk hunters in Oregon could win a rifle valued at over $1,000 if they get their animals tested for Chronic Wasting Disease.  CWD is fatal for deer, elk and moose. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has a plan that'll take effect if an animal is found with the disease.   

CWD has been reported near Spokane, WA, as well as in Idaho and California.  Hunters receive one automatic entry in the drawing for every test submitted for a deer or elk harvested between August 1st, 2025 - April 1st, 2026 (one test per animal).

"Testing healthy-looking animals will help wildlife managers find this disease early, which is how we can slow the spread of CWD," said Ashley Reeder, ODFW CWD coordinator. "Hunters are a critical part of this effort, and we are grateful to OHA for offering another incentive for hunters to get their animals tested."

There are several easy ways to submit CWD samples: 

• Visit an ODFW office by making an appointment or leaving a head in a designated collection barrel
• Submit a sample at participating meat processors and taxidermists
• Visit a CWD check station during certain weekends of any legal weapon seasons for deer and elk; check stations are planned in Baker City, Celilo Park, Elgin and Prineville. See dates and locations of check stations. Additional locations may be announced

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