Minnesota DNR eliminates mandatory CWD testing

The DNR has eliminated mandatory testing for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) to avoid large gatherings of hunters and staff. This season the testing is voluntary. 

"They're asking people to still voluntarily bring their deer heads, or whole bodies however they do it, to a station for testing. From what I understand, it's going to stretch two to three years, the testing, if they don't," said Brad Trevena, the Region 3 director for the Minn. Deer Hunters Association.

DNR officials are still hoping for at least 50 percent participation to avoid reverting to mandates.

One year ago, when CWD testing of hunter-harvested deer was mandatory in five zones around the state, the compliance was better than 93 percent.

Hunters are highly encouraged to participate to help stop the spread.