USDA Allocates $12 Million to Fight Chronic Wasting Disease in Deer, Elk, and Moose
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has committed $12 million to bolster national efforts against chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal prion disease affecting cervids such as deer, elk, and moose. The funding aims to support state, tribal, and academic efforts to improve surveillance, diagnostics, and mitigation strategies.
CWD is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease caused by misfolded proteins called prions. It is known for its devastating effects on cervid populations and has now been confirmed in 36 U.S. states. Although CWD is not known to infect humans, public health agencies continue to recommend against consuming meat from infected animals due to potential risks.
Funding Breakdown and Goals
APHIS will divide the funding equally between two primary areas:
$6 million for farmed cervid programs: These funds will be distributed based on state-level CWD status and participation in the CWD Herd Certification Program. The goal is to enhance disease control measures and prevent further spread within captive herds.
$6 million for wild cervid research and management: This portion will support field research, population surveillance, and disease containment strategies in free-ranging deer, elk, and moose populations.
Eligible recipients include state departments of agriculture and wildlife, tribal governments and organizations, and research institutions.
Veterinary Implications
Veterinarians and veterinary researchers play a critical role in managing CWD by developing diagnostic protocols, studying transmission pathways, and guiding wildlife and agricultural policies. The funding will enable additional collaboration between state animal health agencies and veterinary colleges to refine early detection and biosecurity efforts.
CWD at a Glance
Cause: Misfolded prion proteins
Affected species: Deer, elk, moose
Transmission: Direct contact and environmental exposure
First detected: Captive deer in Colorado, 1960s; wild deer in 1981
Human risk: No confirmed cases, but consumption of infected meat is strongly discouraged
As the disease continues to spread, APHIS's funding marks a significant step toward a more coordinated, science-driven approach to protecting cervid populations and maintaining ecosystem balance.
