JONESBORO, Ark. – Hunters across Arkansas can now take advantage of free testing for chronic wasting disease (CWD) thanks to a new program from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). Wildlife health biologist AJ Riggs explained that visual signs alone cannot confirm infection; only USDA‑approved laboratory tests can.
Why CWD Testing Matters
CWD is a fatal, transmissible disease that affects deer, elk and moose. An infected animal may appear healthy for more than a year, during which time it can spread the disease through bodily waste or direct contact. In later stages, symptoms such as weight loss, excessive salivation, increased drinking or urination, and a reduced fear of humans may appear, but these signs do not guarantee the animal has CWD.
How Hunters Can Get Their Samples Tested
The AGFC is providing free sampling kits to hunters throughout the season. Participants can locate drop‑off points and participating taxidermists on the agency’s website. Regional AGFC offices also accept samples, though hunters are encouraged to call ahead to confirm hours and availability.
Riggs stressed the importance of submitting clear photos or video of any deer that appears sick. “Pictures and video help us assess the animal before it arrives for testing,” he said.
Safety Recommendations
Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Arkansas Department of Health advise against consuming any animal that tests positive for CWD or shows signs of illness. The AGFC will assist hunters in safely disposing of any positive specimens.
Supporting Arkansas’s Wildlife
By offering free testing, the AGFC aims to curb the spread of CWD, protect the state’s hunting heritage, and safeguard the health of Arkansas’s natural resources. Hunters are urged to report suspected cases promptly and to use the free testing resources available.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
