WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will distribute approximately $12 million in competitive funding to support state, tribal and research efforts aimed at slowing the spread of chronic wasting disease among wild and farmed deer and elk populations across the United States.
The funding initiative from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will support disease management programs, research projects and indemnity payments for cervid owners with pending claims, according to the agency.
“Chronic wasting disease poses a serious threat to U.S. wildlife and agriculture,” Dr. Alan Huddleston, acting U.S. chief veterinary officer, stated. “This funding reflects our commitment to working collaboratively with States, Tribes, and research partners to develop innovative solutions and protect the health of our nation’s cervid populations.”
The USDA said approximately $6 million will support projects focused on controlling and preventing chronic wasting disease in farmed cervids, while roughly $5.5 million will fund research and management efforts involving wild populations. Another $500,000 has been allocated for prevention and management programs on tribal lands.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological illness affecting cervids, including deer and elk. The disease attacks brain tissue and can remain undetected for long periods because infected animals often appear healthy during incubation stages while still transmitting the illness.
Federal officials stated the disease’s continued spread, combined with limited control tools and uneven effectiveness of existing management approaches, has complicated containment efforts nationwide.
According to APHIS, prior funding rounds supported genetic research intended to reduce susceptibility in farmed deer herds, expanded disease surveillance, improved diagnostic capabilities and funded carcass disposal programs designed to reduce transmission risks.
Eligible recipients for the latest funding round include state agriculture agencies, wildlife departments, tribal governments, universities and research institutions involved in chronic wasting disease management and response activities.
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