Success StoryWildlife Extension Assists State with Understanding the Risks of Chronic Wasting Disease Spread Between Captive and Wild Cervids



Wildlife Extension Assists State with Understanding the Risks of Chronic Wasting Disease Spread Between Captive and Wild Cervids

Author: Matthew Springer

Planning Unit: Forestry

Major Program: Wildlife Habitat and Damage Management Education

Outcome: Initial Outcome

In December of 2020, UK Wildlife Extension in collaboration with Dr. John Cox in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Kentucky Office of the State Veterinarian, and Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, initiated a research project aimed at understanding the potential Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) risks associated with cervid (i.e., deer and elk) Farms in the state of Kentucky. The project funded through the United States Department of Agriculture Animal Plant Health Inspection Service, is part of a national initiative to try and mitigate issues associated with the prion disease on both wild and captive deer populations. The project’s objectives are to identify characteristics of captive facilities that may lend themselves to increase risks of interactions between wild and captive animals. Results of the project will inform regulations and recommendations that will hopefully protect the wildlife resources within Kentucky, a resource valued at almost >$1 billion annually within the state, as well as the livelihood of the close to 100 captive cervid producers within the state. The project will be wrapping up fieldwork and data analysis by fall of 2022 including recommendations to the Department of Agriculture and Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife for management decisions.






Stories by Forestry


Ohio Valley Lumber Drying Association Celebrates 40 years of Providing Wood Drying Education

about 4 months ago by Chad Niman

Drying of lumber is a meticulous process that can be very costly if done incorrectly. Thus, the need... Read More


White Oak Barrel Stave Seasoning and Degrade Assistance Continues- Over $50 Million Saved/Earned as Stave Drying Study Completed at the Wood Utilization Center in Breathitt County KY (RCARS)

about 4 months ago by Chad Niman

The Bourbon industry has been booming in Kentucky and long-term availability of White oak wood for b... Read More