Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) | Wisconsin CWD Testing Station
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal and infectious nervous system disease that affects deer, moose, elk, and reindeer/caribou. It is classified as a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) or prion disease. CWD exclusively affects members of the cervid or deer family, including wild and captive populations. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) initiated CWD monitoring in the state’s wild white-tailed deer population in 1999, with the first positive cases discovered in 2002.
Hunters in Wisconsin can submit a sample from their deer for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) at our testing station. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers free testing for deer harvested in Wisconsin.
How to prepare your deer for testing
As soon as possible after harvesting a deer, take it to a sampling station. If you decide not to bring the entire carcass, remove the deer’s head with 5 inches of neck attached. The heads can be brought to a sampling location within five days of the harvest if refrigerated (35°F to 45°F), or for a longer period if frozen. If you are mounting the deer, please take it to the taxidermist before bring it here. We will not be able to cape the deer for you.
Methods for testing for CWD at Whale-Tales Archery
With Our Assistance
Hunters who harvest a deer in Wisconsin can bring in a deer or the head of their adult deer, with 5 inches of neck attached, for testing. We offer assistance during any of our open hours (Tuesday – Friday 10AM – 6PM, Saturday 10AM-3PM). You will need your DNR Customer Number, Authorization Number, Location of Kill and Personal Contact information.
Self Service Kiosk
Hunters who harvest a deer in Wisconsin can drop off the head of their adult deer, with 5 inches of neck attached, for testing at our self-service kiosk which is open 24 hours a day. You will find all the paperwork in the kiosk which you will attach to the head with 5 inches of neck (bags will provided as well).
CWD Testing Results
Once a hunter submits a sample, test results are added as they become available. Typically, results are accessible within 10-14 days after the deer is brought to a sampling station. For test, head to the WI DNR CWD Test Results.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I expect to receive test results?
Once a hunter submits a sample, test results are added as they become available. Typically, results are accessible within 10-14 days after the deer is brought to a sampling station. For test, head to the WI DNR CWD Test Results.
Is CWD testing free?
Hunters who
Can I sample my deer's head for CWD testing in a different county from where I harvested it?
Yes. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) allows hunters to transport a deer head and a hand-width length of neck outside a CWD-affected county for testing purposes.
What If im doing a shoulder mount?
If you are mounting the deer, please take it to the taxidermist before bring it here. We will not be able to cape the deer for you.
For more information, call us at (262) 965-2825 or visit Wisconsin DNR CWD Sampling Information.
