What to know about Chronic Wasting Disease this hunting season in Oregon
By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
ELGIN- With hunting season in full swing, hunters are reminded to understand the importance of having your harvest checked for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). This fatal disease infects deer and elk across North America. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, CWD has not yet been detected in Oregon, however it has been found in all surrounding states – Idaho, California, and Washington. ODFW says, “we have a chance to manage CWD if both hunters and wildlife managers work together. Get your animals tested and educate yourself and others about CWD.”
Below is a list of CWD check stations and addition information about CWD from the Oregon department of Fish and Wildlife.
Chronic Wasting Disease check stations
2024 opening weekend deer rifle season:
- Celilo Park (exit 97 off I-84 west of Biggs Junction), Oct. 6-8, 2024, 9 a.m. to dusk. (Google map coordinates )
- Elgin Rodeo Grounds, 790 S 8th Ave, Oct. 5-7, 2024, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Google map coordinates )
- Baker City, ODOT parking lot off Hwy 86, Oct. 5-7, 2024, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Google map coordinates )
2024 0pening weekend rifle Rocky Mtn elk season:
- Celilo Park (exit 97 off I-84 west of Biggs Junction), Nov. 2-4, 2024, 9 a.m. to dusk. (Google map coordinates)
- Elgin Rodeo Grounds, 790 S 8th Ave, Nov. 2-4, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Google map coordinates)
- Baker City, ODOT parking lot off Hwy 86, Nov. 2-4, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Google map coordinates)
Smaller check stations will also be open in some districts throughout the state, and hunters should contact their district directly for more information on potential locations.
If you encounter a CWD check station while transporting an animal carcass you are legally required to stop.
Find out more about ODFW’s efforts to prevent and monitor the spread of CWD to Oregon.
Other ways to get your animal tested
If you do not encounter a check station, there are several other ways to get your animal tested, from visiting an ODFW office to using a participating taxidermist/meat processor who can collect and submit samples for you. Learn more about other ways to get your animal tested.
For more information on CWD, as well as a link to the Online CWD Testing Results Portal, please visit www. MyODFW.com/CWD.
