Chronic Wasting Disease on OSMP

About Chronic Wasting Disease

CWD is a neurological disease called a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy or TSE that infects mule deer, white-tailed deer and elk. Although similar to the more familiar mad-cow disease, CWD is thought to be restricted to these three species. CWD causes deterioration of the brain in infected animals and leads to eventual death. How CWD is transmitted, its impact on wild populations of animals, and the role of the environment in spread are still poorly understood. As a result, studies of wild deer and elk populations have the potential to shed light on many of the mysteries of this disease. For more information about CWD and the involvement of the Colorado Division of Wildlife in its study and management, visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife Chronic Wasting Disease website.

CWD Study on OSMP Lands

Recently, the incidence of deer detected with Chronic Wasting disease (CWD) in Boulder has increased. In order to address this potential increase in prevalence of the disease and some unanswered questions about CWD and its impacts on mule deer populations, OSMP is teaming with the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) to undertake a cooperative study examining CWD prevalence, survivorship and management in the deer herd using City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks land between Baseline and Eldorado Springs Drive on the eastern side of the foothills.

This study will allow OSMP and CDOW to learn about the effects that the disease has on a wild herd of mule deer. Previous studies of CWD have been limited to captive herds. The study plan involves capturing, collaring and live testing (tonsil biopsy) between 60-120 deer. Marked deer will be monitored for 2-3 years to determine mortality rates of both CWD-positive and CWD-negative deer. In addition, mark re-sight population estimates will be performed to determine herd population size. Following the initial study phase (and based on initial findings), a management plan will be created to examine management of CWD positive deer and minimize impacts of the disease on the deer herd. At the conclusion of the study period, management needs and directions will be assessed and a long-range plan will be developed by OSMP and CDOW.

Photo - a Division of Wildlife biologist performs a tonsil biopsy to test a deer for CWD. The deer is not harmed by the test.

The OSMP system provides a unique place to study CWD since the deer herd is localized, unhunted, relatively habituated to humans, and frequents extensive pubic lands and neighborhoods. This provides a unique opportunity to learn more about CWD in wild mule deer and provide scientific information to inform management of the disease on OSMP lands, as well as across its range.

Links to More Information

• Colorado Division of Wildlife Chronic Wasting Disease website
• CWD study plan (464.57 KB)

Last Updated on Wednesday, 28 October 2009 13:16