Minnesota Confirms CWD in Stillwater Deer 30 Miles From Nearest Known Cases
Updated
Updated · KSTP · Aug 4
Minnesota Confirms CWD in Stillwater Deer 30 Miles From Nearest Known Cases
3 articles · Updated · KSTP · Aug 4
Summary
A deer found dead near Stillwater on July 16 tested positive for chronic wasting disease after a landowner reported it acting strangely, unafraid of humans and emaciated.
The Minnesota DNR said the detection in deer permit area 236 sits about 30 miles from the closest confirmed CWD cases in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, prompting a surveillance response for the area.
Michelle Carstensen, the DNR's wildlife health supervisor, said the case underscores the need for public reporting of sick deer so animals can be tested quickly.
Minnesota is already shifting to a four-year rotational surveillance plan; in 2026, hunters in the southwest quadrant must test every harvested deer age 1 or older.
CWD affects cervids including white-tailed deer, moose and elk, has no known cure, and has been detected in more than two-thirds of U.S. states.