Important Changes To CWD Testing And Deer Carcass Disposal In Black Earth

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced that the department’s chronic wasting disease processing center in Black Earth has moved to a new facility in Poynette.

Sampling for chronic wasting disease (CWD) and deer carcass disposal will no longer be available at the facility in Black Earth. DNR staff will also not be on site.

The move comes following the end of a long-term lease at the Black Earth facility and the move to the state-owned facility in Poynette. 

A self-service CWD sampling kiosk and carcass disposal dumpster remains available in the Black Earth area at Salmo Pond County Park. Although the new CWD processing center in Poynette will not be open to the public, self-serve kiosks are available in the area.

To find a CWD sampling and carcass disposal locations near you, visit the DNR’s Sampling For Chronic Wasting Disease webpage or on the Hunt Wild mobile app. Test results are usually available from the DNR within two weeks.

CWD is an always-fatal disease that affects the nervous system of deer, elk, moose and caribou caused by a misshapen prion protein. The disease can spread through contact with an infected animal's saliva, urine or feces. It can also spread indirectly through exposure to a contaminated environment. CWD prions are extremely resilient, and they can stay in the soil for a long time, making containment of an affected area a challenge.

The DNR thanks hunters for participating in CWD sampling efforts and wishes them a safe and successful deer season.