Quick Answer
When planning off-grid hunting trips, consider the risk of chronic wasting disease (CWD) and take measures to prevent its spread, such as disposing of deer carcasses properly and using equipment that has been decontaminated. Hunters should also be aware of CWD-positive areas and take precautions to avoid contact with infected deer. This includes wearing gloves and masks when handling deer and cleaning equipment.
Pre-Trip Planning
Before heading out on an off-grid hunting trip, research the area for any CWD-positive deer populations. In the United States, for example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) provide maps and lists of CWD-positive counties. If you plan to hunt in a CWD-positive area, take extra precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. This includes decontaminating your equipment, wearing protective gear, and disposing of deer carcasses properly.
Field Precautions
When handling deer in the field, wear gloves and a mask to prevent contact with CWD-positive deer tissues. Use a pair of disposable gloves for each deer, and change them frequently. After handling a deer, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and clean any equipment that came into contact with the deer. Decontaminate equipment by soaking it in a 1:10 solution of bleach and water for 10 minutes. Allow the equipment to air dry before reusing it.
Post-Hunt Procedures
After the hunt, properly dispose of deer carcasses by burying them 6-8 feet deep or by taking them to a designated deer disposal site. Remove any edible portions, such as meat and organs, from the carcass and dispose of them in a sealed container. If you plan to transport deer carcasses, make sure they are sealed in a plastic bag or wrapped in a plastic sheet to prevent leakage.
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