(MADISON) – Today, Senator Patty Schachtner (D-Somerset) joined Representative Katrina Shankland (D-Stevens Point) by co-authoring two bills intended to limit the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
“Hunting is a part of who we are and we have to do everything we can to address the growing spread of CWD across our area. This disease is 100% fatal in deer and has been shown to be transmittable through eating infected meats. For many families in my district, venison is an important and affordable source of protein. It is beyond time we act to address this disease,” said Senator Schachtner.
LRB- 3300 will provide funding for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Adopt-a-Kiosk program through which hunters may drop off deer carcass samples for testing at a conveniently located kiosk. The DNR estimates that they will collect at least 21,000 samples across Wisconsin this year, an 18% increase from last year. Our sporting groups and hunters shouldn’t have to cover the entire cost of these kiosks. A cost-sharing option like the Adopt-a-Kiosk program is an important first step.
LRB-0293 will provide $1 million in GPR annually to the DNR for testing, research, and management of CWD in Wisconsin. CWD has already spread to 56 counties and its full impact on the deer population and human health isn’t yet known. The manner and speed of its transmission is also unclear.
“This funding is a much needed investment to save our state’s deer hunting heritage and grow this billion dollar industry for future generations,” stated Senator Schachtner.
Last Update: Sep 10, 2019 1:03 pm CDT
