We are all familiar with the alphabet soup of Washington: POTUS, SCOTUS, SECDEF, FBI, CIA and ATF to name a few. Closer to home, most Montanans know what FWP, NPS and FWS stand for.
Montana hunters and anglers have had to deal with many challenges such as overharvest, pollution, fish consumption warnings, heat, drought, and more. Now, they must also face two new threats: Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
CWD is a fatal disease that affects deer family members. It has been documented in various parts of Montana and is caused by mis-folded proteins called prions. On the other hand, HPAI, also known as bird flu, has been spreading rapidly among birds and even to cattle in Montana.
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Both CWD and HPAI have the potential to spread to humans, and precautions are necessary. It is recommended to have game tested for CWD before consumption, and the CDC advises against consuming meat from infected animals.
With diseases originating in animals being able to spread to humans, vigilance is crucial. Measures such as regulating game farming and not issuing new permits can help limit the spread of these diseases among wildlife populations.
As disease is a critical factor for species under the Endangered Species Act, it is important to address these issues to protect wildlife. Awareness and proactive measures can play a significant role in safeguarding the environment and wildlife populations.
Mike Bader is an independent consultant in Missoula who has experience in grizzly bear management and research and has authored peer-reviewed scientific papers on grizzly bears and their habitat.
