In a landmark development, chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been identified for the first time in British Columbia

raising concerns among wildlife experts and the public alike.

The confirmation came after tests on two deer near the Kootenay town

The discovery, confirmed by wildlife experts from the B.C. government and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on January 31, 2024

A male mule deer and a female white-tailed deer, found deceased on the road, were the unfortunate carriers of this debilitating disease

The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship underscores the importance of community involvement in monitoring and reporting any suspicious behavior in deer

To report sightings or concerns, individuals are encouraged to utilize the 24/7 Report All Poachers and Polluters Line at 1-877-952-7277 or contact the B.C. Wildlife Health Program

As British Columbia mobilizes its resources to address this emerging threat to its wildlife population