CWD Sampling Results

Each year, MDC tests a sample of the state’s deer population for CWD. CWD testing has two main goals: detect the disease as early as possible in new locations and monitor changes in disease occurrence over time.

Taxidermists and meat processors throughout the state partner with MDC and collect CWD samples from hunter-harvested deer. 

Within designated counties mandatory CWD sampling allows a greater number of samples to be collected to better understand where the disease is located. 

CWD sampling allows MDC scientists to better understand where the disease is on the landscape so that management actions can be applied to keep Missouri’s deer herd healthy, to learn about how the disease is spreading, and to keep the public informed.