Michigan Continues Work to Contain Chronic Wasting Disease, Avian Flu and West Nile

By Vanessa Torres

Michigan -(Ammoland.com)- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today provided an update on three serious wildlife diseases that are affecting several species.

In late May, the DNR announced confirmation of chronic wasting disease in a free-ranging deer in Ingham County. Less than two weeks later, highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in three Canada goslings in Macomb County. Most recently, West Nile virus has been found in crows in Ingham County.

Russ Mason, chief of the DNR Wildlife Division, said employees throughout the division have kept a tight focus on the vital tasks at hand.

“Staff members have done an exceptional job putting response plans into action for both chronic wasting disease and avian influenza. Surveillance and containment are top priorities as we work to safeguard the public, domestic poultry and Michigan’s wildlife populations,” Mason said.

“We are grateful, too, for the steadfast commitment and expertise of our partners across the board in managing this effort,” he added. “From the U.S. Department of Agriculture and local county and township officials, to goose contractors and our colleagues at the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and Health and Human …read more

Source:: AmmoLand