Montana Expands CWD Monitoring and Regulations for 2024 Season

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is continuing its efforts to monitor chronic wasting disease (CWD) in specific areas across southwestern, central, and central-eastern parts of the state. These areas, designated as Priority Sampling Areas, will see enhanced surveillance as the 2024 hunting season begins.

Carcass Disposal Requirements

New regulations emphasize proper disposal of carcass parts such as the brain, eyes, spleen, lymph glands, and spinal cord. These should be left at the kill site whenever possible. If an animal is being transported for taxidermy or meat processing, the brain and spinal tissue must be bagged and disposed of in a Class II landfill. Transporting a carcass within the state is allowed, but hunters must ensure that any remaining parts are properly disposed of in a landfill after butchering. Dumping carcasses is strictly prohibited and poses a significant risk of spreading diseases, including CWD.

This rule applies to all deer, elk, and moose harvested in Montana, whether through hunting or as vehicle-killed salvage.

Voluntary and Mandatory Testing

In most areas of Montana, submitting a CWD sample is voluntary. However, FWP has introduced new mandatory testing in certain regions near Libby. Hunters holding Deer B License 199-20 for Hunting Districts (HDs) 100, 103, and 104, or Deer Permit 103-50 for HD 103, are required to submit their harvested animals for testing.

For hunters outside of these mandatory testing areas, FWP encourages those interested in having their animals tested to visit a CWD Sampling Station or follow the instructions in the Montana CWD Submission Guide.

Attractants and Scents

Hunters planning to use scents to mask human odor or attract game should ensure that they use approved products. While artificial scents are the safest option, those certified by the Responsible Hunting Scent Association are also allowed. Look for labels like DPP✓ or RtQUIC✓ to ensure compliance with FWP regulations.

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Reporting Sick Animals

FWP is urging hunters to report any deer, elk, or moose that appear sick or diseased. If a harvested animal shows signs of illness, hunters should immediately notify their local FWP office and limit contact with the animal. FWP will assess the situation to determine whether the animal is fit for consumption or if the hunter is eligible for a replacement tag.

Priority Sampling Areas

Hunters are encouraged to stop at CWD sampling stations if they encounter one, particularly in Priority Sampling Areas where FWP is focusing its data collection efforts. For further instructions on submitting samples, visit the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov/cwd.

For more information about chronic wasting disease in Montana and related regulations, visit the FWP’s CWD page at fwp.mt.gov/cwd.