No. 6 – Is There a State Importation Ban on High-Risk Parts?

Through the end of deer season, we will be posting a frequently asked question (FAQ) and answer related to chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Pennsylvania in an album on our Facebook page.

We know many of you – hunters, non-hunters, processors, taxidermists and more – have questions about CWD and the effects this disease can cause. We are here as a resource and want to help everyone understand the complexities and details related to CWD in our state.

If you have a specific question related to CWD, email pgccomments@pa.gov.

Here’s the question for week six:

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) was first detected in 1967 in a captive deer facility in Colorado, since then, CWD has spread to 25 states and three Canadian provinces, including Pennsylvania.

To reduce the risk of spreading CWD, it is unlawful to import high-risk cervid parts from CWD positive states. High-risk parts include the brain, eyes, tonsils, lymph nodes, spinal cord, and spleen.

Once high-risk parts are removed, the processed meat may be transported into Pennsylvania.

Click here to see the USGS “Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America” map.

Click here for more information about CWD.

As a reminder, if you have a specific question related to CWD email it to pgccomments@pa.gov.