Epidemiologists with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta and epidemiologists at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment have studied chronic wasting disease and found no link between it and any neurological disease that affects humans. Based upon their expert advice, the Colorado Division of Wildlife continues to allow sport hunting of deer and elk within the endemic area. However, based on recommendations from federal and state health experts, the Division suggests that hunters follow simple precautions when hunting or handling animals in the endemic area. Several opportunities exist for hunters to have their harvested deer or elk tested for chronic wasting disease during the 2001 big game seasons. As part of its ongoing monitoring program, the Division of Wildlife conducts surveys for chronic wasting disease in select units during the regular rifle seasons.
Participation is voluntary.
Hunters in the select units will be notified by mail prior to the hunting seasons with details on participation and drop-off sites in their hunt area. Ten weeks may be required to complete sampling and testing. Sportsmen and women hunting in units not included in the Division s monitoring program can have their animals tested by either the Colorado State University Diagnostic Laboratory or the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory. Game processing fees and other incidental expenses are not eligible for refunds. A person can discard the meat into a landfill, either directly or through their garbage service.