JM77
Well-known member
Perhaps BuzzH or JM77 could provide some anecdotal evidence they have seen to the effects of CWD in WY on our ungulate herds. Personally, I haven't observed a massive notable decline in the populations of elk and deer due to the disease. Again, my opinion here, but I have seen bigger drops in the population numbers of elk due to wolves, bad winters and drought more than anything compared to the effects of CWD.
I'm sure I have stated before that our local elk herd, in central Wyoming, is over objective and has been testing positive at a 3-6% rate for over ten years. These elk winter heavily in the same areas and in rather large, dense herds. Unless something changes, it appears elk weather this storm of CWD.
The mule deer positive rate around here hovers around 27% and without a doubt herd numbers are down in our general area, this verified by a recent and intense helicopter survey. While I don't see the deer like back in the '90s, the herd seems to have stabilized at lower than desired numbers.
It's foolish, as far as I'm concerned, for anyone to criticize Wyoming's handling of the CWD dilemma. At this point, IMO, any biologist who thinks their plan is better or more proactive, is just tackling this with their opinion. There is no doubt in my mind ,that without a breakthrough, Mother Nature is going to handle this one on her own, no matter what kind of messes are made by wildlife managers.