Ken Erickson, a seasoned hunter in Saskatchewan since 1971, decided to halt his pursuit of certain animals due to concerns over chronic wasting disease. With the conclusion of a provincial testing program, other hunters are contemplating a similar decision.
The Saskatchewan government recently announced the discontinuation of its chronic wasting disease testing initiative after facing low participation from hunters. This disease impacts the neurological systems of cervids like deer, elk, and moose.
Erickson emphasized the importance of his family’s safety, especially with his wife being immunocompromised. He expressed reluctance to take any risks that could potentially bring the disease into his household.
Born in Thunder Bay, Ont., Erickson, who relocated to Regina in the ’70s, has a rich hunting background, having provided guidance to fellow hunters and served as a hunting guide in northern Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Despite his continuing passion for bird hunting, Erickson admitted that advancing age has made it challenging to handle larger game alone. He expressed a desire to hunt deer again, emphasizing the need for science-driven decisions rather than politically motivated choices.
The decision to end the testing program has faced criticism, with Darrell Crabbe, the executive director of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, underscoring the program’s significance for ensuring meat safety. The environment ministry plans to monitor wildlife health using alternative approaches following the program’s termination.
Chronic wasting disease has been detected in 63 of Saskatchewan’s 83 wildlife zones, with mandatory testing in specific zones. However, samples from voluntary submission areas will no longer undergo testing.
Ryan Brook, a professor at the University of Saskatchewan, highlighted the unexpected termination of the program, emphasizing the importance of vital information gathered through testing. The lack of consultation with hunting groups has stirred shock and disappointment among the hunting community.
Concerns have been raised about potential consequences, including the increased risk of disease spread and financial implications resulting from the program’s termination. Calls for reinstating the program and creating a wildlife advisory committee have emerged within the hunting community.
In conclusion, stakeholders urge the government to address the issue seriously and take proactive steps beyond data collection to safeguard wildlife and uphold hunting traditions in Saskatchewan.