Wildlife officials have confirmed the first known cases of chronic wasting disease in Grant County after two white-tailed deer harvested by hunters tested positive, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
AGFC officials said the two deer from Grant County were identified through routine testing conducted last week. One was a 2½-year-old buck taken southwest of Sheridan, and the other was a 3½-year-old buck harvested near the Grapevine area.
A third positive case was also confirmed in Sevier County, where a 4½-year-old buck was taken on the north side of De Queen Lake. Officials said these cases mark the first detections of chronic wasting disease in both Grant and Sevier counties, and the source of the infections remains unknown.
Hunters who harvested the deer that tested positive have been notified, and arrangements have been made for proper disposal of the meat, AGFC officials said.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological illness that affects deer, elk and other members of the cervid family. While there is no evidence that CWD can infect humans, wildlife officials continue to urge caution and surveillance to monitor its spread.
“The best way hunters can help is to get their deer tested for CWD each time they are successful in the woods,” AGFC spokesman Keith Schoenrock said. “It’s 100% voluntary and 100% free.”
AGFC encourages hunters in Grant County and surrounding areas to take advantage of the state’s testing program. A list of chronic wasting disease testing locations is available on the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s website at AGFC.com.
