AGFC Expands CWD Zone with Open House Workshops Scheduled
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) is set to host two open house meetings in September to educate hunters on the expanded Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) management zone and updated deer hunting regulations for the 2024 season. The AGFC has added Cleburne, Craighead, Mississippi, and Sharp counties to Tier 2 of the CWD Management Zone, following positive-CWD cases near the borders of these counties. Craighead County was the only one where a positive case was directly found.
These workshops will provide valuable information to hunters and landowners, aiming to raise awareness and cooperation in slowing down the spread of CWD. Dr. Jenn Ballard, the state wildlife veterinarian for the AGFC, expressed the AGFC’s enthusiasm for the events, highlighting the importance of hunters in managing deer populations and tackling challenges like CWD.
The open house meetings are scheduled to take place at the Heber Springs Community Center on September 12 and the ASU Cooper Alumni Center on September 17. Both events will begin with a brief introduction and presentation on CWD, covering its definition, transmission, and prevention measures. Hunters are encouraged to stay and discuss various topics with AGFC experts, including regulations, Deer Management Assistance Programs, conservation efforts, and ongoing research projects.
Additionally, the AGFC will provide free CWD testing for deer through a network of drop-off containers and taxidermists across the state. This initiative is part of the commission’s comprehensive approach to managing the spread of the disease. For more information on CWD and the AGFC’s testing network, hunters can visit the AGFC website.
- Open house dates and locations:
- – Heber Springs Community Center, September 12
- – ASU Cooper Alumni Center, September 17
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