Chronic Wasting Disease Detected Near Mohawk Valley: DEC Investigations and Public Safety Measures

COLUMBIA, N.Y. — As hunting season approaches in the Mohawk Valley, there has been an alarming development: a case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been found on a Hayner Road farm in the Town of Columbia. This is the first time since 2005 that CWD has been detected in central New York.

Understanding Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)

Chronic Wasting Disease is a neuromuscular disorder that affects deer and elk, primarily manifesting in the brain and nervous systems. The contagious prions inadvertently cause damage to brain and spinal cord tissue over time. Unfortunately, once CWD is introduced, it is nearly impossible to eradication completely.

How CWD Was Detected in Columbia

Columbia Supervisor Nathan Seamon was not initially informed of the situation in his official capacity; rather as a homeowner living in the vicinity. Seamon stated, "I was contacted late last week as a property owner that a neighboring property had a deer test positive for chronic wasting disease."

The DEA (Division of Environmental Conservation) in New York is currently investigating how CWD was introduced onto the farm. The facility houses more than 200 deer, making this incident particularly concerning.

DEC’s Response to the CWD Detection

DEC officials confirm that one isolated case of CWD was detected in a captive deer facility. However, they emphasize that wild deer have not yet been confirmed to have the disease. The DEC is now focusing on measures to ensure the disease does not spread into wild deer populations.

Steps Taken by the Town of Columbia

The Town of Columbia is collaborating closely with DEC to mitigate the risk of CWD spread. As hunting season approaches, the DEC has asked the town to establish a drop-box location for hunters to deposit deer. These animals will be tested to see if they carry the disease. This proactive approach aims to monitor wild deer populations closely and possibly contain the disease before it spreads further.

DEC and Town Working in Harmony

Call to Action for Local Hunters and Residents

Hunters and local residents in the Mohawk Valley are urged to remain vigilant and discard all wild deer testing at designated drop-box locations. The goal is to prevent the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease, ensuring the safety of both deer populations and the broader wildlife community.

Stay Informed and Support Local Efforts

The Town of Columbia and the DEC will keep the public updated on their efforts to contain this health threat. Regular checks and tests will be conducted to ensure the safety of wildlife and local communities.

For updates and more information regarding this matter, please follow official Town of Columbia and DEC social media pages and look forpublic announcements. Together, we can form a strong partnership in protecting our deer and elk population from this deadly disease.

Keywords used naturally: Chronic Wasting Disease, New York State DEC, Columbia Supervisor, Hyner Road Farm, CWD, deer testing, disease containment