La Crosse County extends deer feeding ban after CWD detection in wild herd

A wild deer in La Crosse County has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD) during Wisconsin's annual gun-hunting season. The discovery has led to new restrictions, including an extended ban on baiting and feeding deer in the area.

Wisconsin first detected CWD in wild deer in 2002, though monitoring began in 1999. The disease spreads through saliva, blood, faeces, and urine, with baiting and feeding increasing transmission risks. Moving infected carcasses without proper disposal can also worsen the problem.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has now extended La Crosse County's baiting and feeding ban from two to three years. Monroe and Vernon counties face similar three-year bans due to separate CWD cases. These measures align with the DNR's focus on priority areas, where CWD is most prevalent.

As of early 2026, high-prevalence zones remain in the southwest and south-central regions. The DNR continues to monitor white-tailed deer populations, particularly in Crawford, Dane, Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Richland, Rock, Sauk, and Vernon counties.

The new restrictions aim to limit CWD's spread through stricter carcass disposal and reduced human-fed deer gatherings. La Crosse County's extended ban reflects ongoing efforts to control the disease in known hotspots. Officials urge hunters and landowners to follow guidelines to prevent further cases.