Little Rock, Arkansas – According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), a significant milestone has been reached in the fight against chronic wasting disease (CWD) in deer populations with the opening of the archery deer hunting season. As hunters took to the fields on September 27, 2025, the AGFC intensified its efforts to monitor and manage this fatal neurological disease affecting deer, elk, and other cervids. This season marks a critical period for collecting data through hunter-harvested deer samples, which are vital for understanding the spread and prevalence of CWD in Arkansas.
The AGFC has been tracking CWD since it was first detected in the state in 2016, and the disease remains a top concern for wildlife managers. With archery season underway, hunters are encouraged to participate in the commission’s sampling program by submitting deer heads for testing at designated drop-off locations across the state. This initiative not only aids in mapping the disease’s reach but also helps in crafting effective management strategies to protect Arkansas’s deer population. The AGFC emphasizes that while CWD poses no known risk to humans, it can devastate local deer herds if left unchecked, leading to long-term population declines.
In addition to sampling efforts, the AGFC is implementing targeted regulations within the CWD Management Zone, which includes specific counties where the disease has been confirmed. These regulations aim to reduce deer densities in affected areas to slow the spread of CWD. Hunters in these zones are subject to special harvest limits and are required to follow strict guidelines on carcass transportation to prevent the unintentional spread of the disease to unaffected regions. The commission notes that cooperation from the hunting community is essential for the success of these measures.
Beyond regulatory actions, the AGFC is also focusing on public education to raise awareness about CWD. Through workshops, online resources, and community outreach, the agency is equipping hunters and landowners with the knowledge to identify signs of the disease and understand best practices for prevention. Symptoms of CWD in deer include weight loss, stumbling, listlessness, and other neurological abnormalities, though infected animals may not show visible signs for months or even years. The AGFC stresses that early detection through testing is crucial, as it allows for timely interventions to mitigate impacts on wildlife populations.
A key component of the AGFC’s strategy involves collaboration with hunters, who serve as the frontline in monitoring efforts. By submitting samples, hunters provide invaluable data that informs research and policy. For instance, last season’s sampling efforts revealed an increase in CWD-positive cases in certain northern counties, prompting the AGFC to adjust management plans for the 2025 season. This adaptive approach underscores the agency’s commitment to preserving Arkansas’s outdoors heritage and ensuring sustainable hunting opportunities for future generations.
To bolster these efforts, the AGFC has reported a significant statistical data point: over 7,000 deer were tested for CWD during the 2024-2025 hunting season, with approximately 23% of samples from the CWD Management Zone testing positive. This figure highlights the persistent challenge of managing the disease and the importance of continued vigilance. Additionally, a specific example of the AGFC’s work involves a targeted project in Newton County, where intensive sampling and public outreach have been prioritized due to a recent uptick in CWD cases. This localized effort exemplifies how the commission tailors its approach to address regional variations in disease prevalence, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed.
The AGFC also reminds hunters that participating in CWD sampling is free and accessible, with drop-off locations strategically placed for convenience. Results from testing are typically available within a few weeks, and hunters can access them online to stay informed about the health of their local deer populations. This transparency fosters trust and encourages ongoing engagement from the hunting community, which is vital for the long-term success of CWD management in Arkansas.
As the archery season progresses, the AGFC remains dedicated to balancing the needs of hunters with the imperative to protect the state’s environment and biodiversity. The commission’s multifaceted approach—combining scientific research, regulatory measures, and community involvement—serves as a model for addressing complex habitat and wildlife health issues. Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike are urged to stay informed and play an active role in safeguarding Arkansas’s natural resources for the enjoyment of all who cherish the state’s sustainability and wild spaces.
For more information, visit Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.