The first suspected case of chronic wasting disease in the Bemidji area was announced by the DNR.
According to a release, the preliminary test results were from a buck harvested opening weekend 10 miles south of Bemidji in permit area 184.
The final result of this test is expected later this week.
“While disappointing, this find is not completely unexpected,” said Kelly Straka, wildlife section manager for the DNR.
“We’re announcing this preliminary CWD positive result to encourage hunters in the Bemidji area to have their deer tested.”
The DNR says they will make self-service sampling stations available in deer permit area 184.
If the preliminary positive is confirmed, the DNR will take additional actions, which may include late special season hunting and targeted culling.
This permit area was under mandatory sampling for the opening weekend.
Over 1,200 deer have been sampled in that area and test results for 700 have been received, with the rest of the results expected later this week.
Deer hunters across the state have testing options for the remainder of the fall by using the services of one of 150 taxidermists who partner with the DNR to extract samples.
Information on self-service sampling locations in the Bemidji area will be available on the DNR website or by calling 888-646-6367.
Featured photo from DNR depicts northern deer permit areas in Minnesota.
