As the hunting season winds up, the government of Saskatchewan is once again urging all hunters in the province to get their animals tested for Chronic Wasting Disease [CWD].

CWD is a fatal, infectious central nervous system disease in deer, elk, moose, and caribou, and there have been 84 cases found in the province already this year. There is no known cure.

"Despite the challenges and changes we've all had to face in 2020, more than 1,300 heads have already been submitted as part of the ministry's voluntary CWD surveillance program," Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said. "Identifying the presence and spread of CWD in the province will help guide the development of disease management plans."

Hunters in wildlife management zones 2W, 9, 10, 35, and 37 are asked to submit mule deer and white-tailed deer heads for testing. However, it is recommended that an animal harvested in any WMZ is submitted.

Testing is free, and although no cases have ever been found in humans, it's recommended you do not eat or distribute any meat from animals that have tested positive.

The last day to drop off animal heads for testing is January 21, 2021.

For a complete list of drop-off sites and information on how to submit a sample for testing, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/CWD.