Bismarck, North Dakota – According to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, hunters in specific western units of the state are now eligible for license refunds due to significant deer mortality caused by epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD). This initiative, announced recently, aims to support hunters affected by the outbreak that has impacted deer populations in several regions. The department is offering refunds for specific licenses in units 3E1, 3F1, 3F2, 4E, and 4F, covering antlered whitetail, antlerless whitetail, any-antlered, and any-antlerless categories. This measure reflects the agency’s commitment to addressing wildlife health crises and ensuring fairness for those engaged in hunting activities amidst challenging conditions.
The EHD outbreak, a viral disease transmitted by biting midges, has led to notable declines in deer numbers in the specified units. This disease often peaks in late summer and early fall, particularly during dry conditions that concentrate deer near water sources, increasing their exposure to infected insects. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has been monitoring the situation closely, documenting reported cases of deer mortality to assess the scale of the impact. While EHD does not affect humans and the meat from infected deer remains safe for consumption, the rapid onset of the disease can cause significant population losses in localized areas, posing challenges for conservation efforts and outdoor recreation.
Hunters holding licenses in the affected units are encouraged to apply for refunds through the department’s online portal or by contacting their offices directly. The process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that those who planned to hunt in these areas are not financially burdened due to circumstances beyond their control. The department has emphasized that this refund policy is a temporary measure, specific to the 2025 hunting season and the EHD outbreak in western North Dakota. Officials are also advising hunters to remain vigilant and report any observations of sick or dead deer to aid in ongoing wildlife monitoring efforts.
Beyond the immediate refund program, the North Dakota Game and Fish Department is working on broader strategies to manage the impact of EHD on deer populations. This includes collaborating with researchers to better understand the disease’s transmission patterns and exploring potential interventions to mitigate future outbreaks. Such efforts are crucial for maintaining healthy habitat conditions and supporting the long-term sustainability of deer herds, which are a vital part of the state’s ecosystem and a key draw for outdoor enthusiasts. The agency’s proactive response underscores its role in balancing the needs of hunters with the imperatives of wildlife management.
To provide context on the scale of the issue, the department noted that EHD outbreaks have historically caused significant localized die-offs, with some past events resulting in mortality rates of up to 25-50% in affected deer populations in certain regions of the state. While exact figures for the 2025 outbreak are still being compiled, early reports suggest a substantial impact in the western units, prompting the swift implementation of the refund policy. This data highlights the importance of adaptive management practices in addressing sudden changes in environment conditions that affect wildlife.
As an example of the department’s broader monitoring efforts, officials have been tracking EHD cases in specific areas like unit 3F2, where hunters and landowners have reported multiple instances of deer found dead near water bodies—a common sign of EHD-related mortality. These reports are critical for mapping the spread of the disease and informing future hunting regulations or habitat management projects in the region. Such targeted data collection helps build a clearer picture of how diseases like EHD interact with environmental factors, guiding policies that protect both wildlife and the interests of the hunting community.
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department continues to prioritize transparency and communication with the public during this challenging time. Hunters and other stakeholders are urged to stay updated on the latest developments regarding EHD and related policies by checking the department’s website regularly. This refund initiative is just one part of a larger effort to adapt to the dynamic challenges facing North Dakota’s natural resources, ensuring that the state remains a premier destination for outdoor activities while safeguarding its wildlife populations for future generations.
For more information, visit North Dakota Game and Fish Department.