The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has released its annual summary of chronic wasting disease (CWD) sampling efforts following the conclusion of the 2025 deer hunting seasons.
According to the agency, 17,759 deer were tested across Wisconsin, with 2,006 animals confirmed positive for CWD. The majority of positive cases — about 87% — were detected in the Southern Farmland Zone, where the disease has been established for many years.
Statewide Sampling Effort
To support testing during the season, the DNR operated 242 sampling locations statewide, including 163 self-service kiosks and 46 staffed sites where hunters could submit tissue samples from harvested deer. Several kiosks were operated through the state’s Adopt-a-Kiosk partnership program with local organizations and businesses.
Hunters who submitted samples typically received their test results in about 8.9 days on average, with diagnostic testing conducted at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
The DNR also deployed 127 carcass disposal dumpsters across the state during the season, providing hunters with a safe way to dispose of deer carcass waste and help limit the potential spread of the disease.
New Detections in Additional Counties
While the disease remains most widespread in southern Wisconsin, the 2025 testing results also revealed new detections in several parts of the state.
For example, La Crosse County recorded its first confirmed case of CWD in a wild deer, while Clark County reported its first two wild detections. Additional positives were also identified in several central and northern counties, including Oneida, Portage, and Wood counties.
Wildlife officials say monitoring these emerging cases is a priority as the disease slowly expands into new areas.
Continued Monitoring of a Complex Disease
State wildlife biologists emphasize that CWD remains a long-term management challenge. The DNR continues to rely heavily on hunter participation to collect samples and track the disease across the state.
Officials encourage hunters to test harvested deer, especially in areas where the disease is present, and to avoid consuming meat from animals that test positive.
While CWD has not been shown to infect humans, public health agencies recommend testing deer before consumption in areas where the disease is known to occur.
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Hunters who want to stay informed about wildlife disease updates, hunting seasons, and regulation changes can track the latest developments through the Hunterizer app, which provides up-to-date hunting seasons and news for hunters across Wisconsin and other states.
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