The following page includes information on CWD in northern WI.

Know CWD website [exit DNR]Included on this site is general information about CWD in Wisconsin including common misconceptions.

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Explore chronic wasting disease

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Contact information: For information on CWD, contact:; Timothy Marien
CWD Wildlife Biologist
Bureau of Wildlife Management
608-264-6046

Prevalence & surveillance

Since 2002, chronic wasting disease (CWD) prevalence within our western monitoring area has shown an overall increasing trend in all sex and age classes. During the past 11 years, the trend in prevalence in adult males has risen from 8-10 percent to over 20 percent, and in adult females from about 3-4 percent to approximately 9 percent. During that same time, the prevalence trend in yearling males has increased from about 2 percent to about 6 percent and in yearling females from roughly 2 percent to about 5 percent.

We continue to find that disease prevalence is higher in males than females and higher in adults than yearlings. It is important to keep in mind that annual prevalence estimates are subject to sampling variation, and that trends over time give us better information. These annual monitoring data are important for Wisconsin's understanding of CWD distribution and prevalence.

The graphs in the links below show estimates of prevalence of CWD in the western monitoring area for yearling and adult males and females during 2002-2012. Illustrated in the graphs are the annual estimates (solid diamonds and open squares), trend lines that are based on all 11 years of test results (bold solid and dashed lines), and the uncertainty associated with the trend lines (thin solid and dashed lines).

Interactive mapping application showing harvest locations of all deer tested including those with positive test results.

CWD sampling areas for 2012 [PDF]The DNR will focus statewide surveillance in Dodge, Grant, Juneau, and Adams counties for the 2012 season. In the CWD Management Zone, the department will continue to sample in the monitoring areas, Devils Lake, and Racine, Kenosha, Richmond, and Sauk counties. In addition, an intense sampling effort will take place around the Washburn positive.

Prevalence of CWD in the CWD Zones [PDF]This map displays the estimated prevalence of CWD per square mile within the CWD management zone. It is based on testing data collected from 2002-2009.