Restrictions on hunters follow disease outbreak

SPOKANE — State game officials are worried about chronic wasting disease in deer, elk, moose and caribou implemented restrictions on hunters bringing meet into the state.

Washington residents hunting in Idaho and Manitoba may only bring meat into the state that has been “de-boned,” hides without heads attached, and finished taxidermy mounts.

Hunters may bring in skulls and antlers as long as all soft-tissue has been removed, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) said.

The restrictions are due to an outbreak of chronic wasting disease in Idaho and Manitoba, agency officials said, noting two mule deer harvested last month near Lucile, Idaho, were found to have the disease.

The agency cites its own administrative rule outlining its authority to limit hunters from bringing in contaminated carcasses.

In addition to the restrictions, hunters who are informed by another state that the animal they harvested tested positive for the disease is required to contact WDFW officials within 24 hours by calling 360-902-2515.

Agency officials said hunters who have already brought their harvests into the state are asked to double-bag bones and put in household garbage for disposal at a landfill.