UPDATE: MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - As of June 23rd, 145 deer have been tested and according to the DNR, all tests have come back negative for Chronic Wasting Disease.





ORIGINAL STORY: MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP -

Test results are in for some of the deer that have been collected as part of the deer culling program. This program is designed to help stop the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

As of late last week, 21 deer have been collected for testing as part of the deer culling program. An additional 50 were collected from roadkill of the counties within the CWD surveillance area. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says so far, there have been no positive tests since the initial deer with CWD was found in Meridian Township.

The DNR also plans to update the Township Board on the deer culling program at their meeting on Tuesday, June 16th.

While there are no known risks to humans involving Chronic Wasting Disease, the DNR has issued an emergency order. A deer and elk feeding and baiting ban is now in effect, and all deer caught during hunting season must be tested for the disease. In addition, all roadkill deer will be tested for CWD, and salvage of roadkill deer is prohibited.

Symptoms of CWD can include a deer looking unusually thin or behaving abnormally (not showing fear of humans, wandering around in circles, etc.). If you see a deer that looks suspicious, you are encouraged to call the DNR Wildlife Disease Lab at 517-336-5030. You can also file a report with the DNR online or call 9-1-1.

The DNR says the disease is spread through bodily fluids such as saliva and blood, so if you see a roadkill deer, you are encouraged to report it as soon as possible to prevent contamination of the surrounding environment.