Why CWD Testing Should Be Mandatory During Bowhunting Season in Missouri

  

 

During my research for this article, I spoke to hunters in my community.  They told me the same thing “Testing for CWD isn’t mandatory during bow season.” And many admitted they wouldn’t test a healthy-looking deer for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). That mindset reveals a dangerous gap in understanding because CWD doesn’t always show symptoms. Infected deer can appear robust for months or even years while silently shedding prions into the soil and plants.

 The Risk of Asymptomatic CWD

CWD is a fatal, infectious prion disease affecting deer and other cervids. It’s similar to Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), which crossed the species barrier to infect humans. While no confirmed human cases of CWD exist, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a cautionary stance due to the possibility of long incubation periods and unknown transmission risks.

Hunters who consume venison from deer harvested in CWD Management Zones without testing are taking a risk that may not be fully understood for decades.

 

 Responsible Hunters Do Test

Many bowhunters in Missouri take the responsible route.  They submit the deer head for testing.  Freeze the venison separately from other foods.  Wait for results before consuming the meat (typically returned in 3–4 weeks)

This voluntary testing is offered free of charge by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) throughout the archery season. For hunters in Joplin, designated drop-off locations make it easy to participate. 

Why Voluntary Testing Isn’t Enough

While mandatory CWD testing is required during the firearms portion of the season, it is not required during bowhunting season. That leaves a gap especially for hunters who believe a healthy-looking deer poses no risk.

But the science says otherwise: CWD can remain asymptomatic for years Infected deer shed prions into the soil and vegetation There is no cure, no vaccine, and no reliable way to detect infection without testing 

 Advocacy Call: Mandatory Testing for Bowhunters

For these reasons, I continue to push for mandatory CWD testing during bowhunting season. Hunters play a critical role in disease management. Voluntary testing is a good start but it’s not enough to contain a disease that hides in plain sight.

If you’re a bowhunter in Missouri, especially in a CWD Management Zone, take the extra step. Submit your deer for testing. Protect your family, your community, and the future of wildlife health.