"Combatting the Spread of Chronic Wasting Disease in Texas"

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is spreading in Texas, posing a significant threat to the state's cervid population. The disease has been detected in both free-ranging and captive deer, with no clear explanation for its spread. Wildlife officials are struggling to contain the outbreak, as infected deer themselves may not be the primary source of transmission. The disease's presence in deer breeding facilities has raised concerns about the industry's role in facilitating its spread. Efforts to contain the disease include live testing before transferring captive deer and slaughtering infected herds, but facing opposition from deer breeders. The future of the Kerr Wildlife Management Area research facility, where CWD was recently detected, remains uncertain.