Agency Moves to Curb Chronic Wasting Among Minnesota’s Deer

ST. PAUL (AP) -- Minnesota wildlife officials are taking steps to curb a fatal brain disease among the state's wild deer.

The Department of Natural Resources on Tuesday announced 2019 deer season regulations aimed at limiting the spread of chronic wasting disease.

The agency plans to expand hunting opportunities and bag limits in areas where the disease has been found in wild deer. Officials say harvesting more deer will result in fewer deer in lower densities, reducing chances of the disease being spread.

Another step involves a ban on deer feeding in 18 counties in southeastern and north-central Minnesota and a continued feeding ban in six central counties.

The DNR also is limiting movement of deer carcasses.

The disease causes brain lesions in deer, elk and moose. There is no evidence that chronic wasting infects people.