What is Kentucky doing about CWD?
There are laws in place restricting the importation of both live and harvested cervids (including, but not limited to deer, elk, reindeer, and moose). Importation into Kentucky of live cervids is prohibited by statute (KRS 150.725, 150.730, 150.735, and 150.740) and is a Class D felony. Whole carcasses of deer or elk harvested in CWD-positive states may not come into (or pass through) Kentucky. The brain and spinal column must be removed before the harvested animal may cross the border. Also, we have an intensive statewide surveillance program, which includes two types of surveillance approaches: a) active surveillance of hunter-harvested deer and elk and b) targeted surveillance of any deer or elk displaying symptoms of the disease. We are increasingly testing more road-kills, as well. Since 2002, KDFWR has tested over 14,000 deer and elk for CWD; all results have been negative. Additionally, all captive cervid facilities must be enrolled in the CWD-monitoring program through the Kent
