About CWD...

Chronic Wasting Disease is a contagious neurological disease that is found in deer and effects the brains of infected animals resulting in abnormal behavior, loss of bodily functions, and death.

CWD has been found in surrounding states, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and more recently in Kansas. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has tested deer since 2000 with no cases testing positive for CWD.

CWD is a slowly progressive disease; signs are usually not seen until the animal is 18 months of age or older.

It is not known exactly how CWD is transmitted. The infectious agent may be passed in feces, urine, or saliva. Transmission is thought to be lateral (from animal to animal). In jurisdictions where CWD is not known to be present in deer populations, as is the case on the Settlement, surveillance programs and regulations that prevent or reduce the likelihood of introduction should be promoted.

The Meskwaki Natural Resources Department currently is working to determine the status of CWD on the Settlement, characterize deer population and to build awareness of CWD among tribal members, all in support of wildlife management and contributing to meeting CWD state and national plans and goals.

Some symptoms of CWD

• Grinding of teeth

• Excessive Salivation

• Increased urination

• Carrying head down

• Listlessness

• Increased Drinking

• Walking in repetitive patterns

• Loss of weight

• Drooping ears

• Abnormal behavior