Have a CWD plan this hunting season

General big game season runs from Oct. 21 through Nov. 26, and FWP will continue chronic wasting disease monitoring efforts this fall. Hunters play a vital role in these efforts when they provide tissue samples from their harvested animals. Before heading into the field this hunting season, hunters should have a CWD plan.

CWD checklist

• Check FWP’s CWD Management webpage or the Hunt Planner Map to see if the area you’re planning to hunt is in a CWD priority or surveillance area.

• If it is or you just want to take a sample, these same tools can be used to locate sampling locations and carcass disposal sites.

• If you plan to take a sample yourself, follow the steps on the Montana CWD Submission Guide and bring the proper instruments including rubber gloves, scalpel, tweezers or pliers, and a small sealable bag for storing the samples.

• Have a plan for carcass management:

• Carcass parts, such as brain, eyes, spleen, lymph glands, and spinal cord material, should be left at the kill site when possible.

• If the animal is transported for taxidermy or meat processing, the brain and spinal tissue must be bagged and disposed of in a Class II landfill.

If your animal tests positive

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you do not eat the meat.

• With a CWD suspect or positive test result, FWP authorizes the disposal of the meat. You must ensure all carcass waste (meat, bones, trimmings, hide, etc.) is disposed of in a landfill.

• If you have already sent your animal to a commercial processor or donated it to a foodbank, contact the Wildlife Health Lab at: 406-577-7883, 406-577-7895, or 406-577-7881.

• If you choose not to consume the meat and wish to request a new license for this year or next year, call your local FWP Regional Office or the Licensing Call Center (406-444-2950) to coordinate the next steps. You will have to properly dispose of all remaining parts in a landfill, and turn in any antlers associated with your harvest, if you request a replacement license.