How does CWD Affect Cervid Farms

Narrator (Voiceover):

Did you know that some farms in the US are raising animals you might not expect? Welcome to a deer farm! Deer farmers raise deer, part of the cervid family, which also includes elk, moose, and reindeer. These farms play a significant role in supporting rural communities, sustainable agriculture, and boosting local economies.

Cervid farms provide enjoyment, venison, antler velvet for traditional medicine, and recreational hunting opportunities. They contribute to important research efforts while some reindeer farms also bring a special holiday charm
These farms create jobs, attract tourists, and offer farmers alternative income. Nationally, they contribute $7.9 billion* to the economy and support over 56,000 jobs*, especially in rural areas.

But cervids are facing a  challenge: Chronic Wasting Disease or CWD. While uncommon, this infectious disease affects the brain, causing illness and death in cervids. The pathogen survives for years in the environment, making it even harder to control.

CWD has been detected in both wild and farmed cervids. In wild deer, CWD has continued to spread across the US. It is difficult to control due to the multiple ways CWD spreads, limited understanding of the disease, and the uncontrolled movement of wild animals.

In farmed cervids, state animal health agencies run programs based on USDA CWD Herd Certification Guidelines to monitor and prevent CWD, while state wildlife agencies conduct surveillance in hunted cervids. See your state agency’s websites for additional information.

While there is currently no strong evidence that CWD infects humans, the CDC advises against consuming meat from infected deer as a precaution.

Why should you care? CWD and the regulations meant to control it have led to a decline in both farmed cervid populations and the health of wild cervids and ecosystems where hunters, farmers, wildlife watchers, and rural communities might rely on these animals for food, income, and tourism.

Effective management is essential to protect both wild and farmed populations. Supporting efforts to prevent CWD is crucial for preserving wildlife, protecting rural jobs, and ensuring that cervid farms continue to be a sustainable part of our nation’s agriculture.

By working together to fight CWD, we can help keep these farms healthy and thriving for generations to come.