Despite CWD warnings, North Dakota lawmakers approve private land deer baiting bill

Image courtesy of North Dakota Game and Fish

North Dakota lawmakers passed Senate Bill 2137 on Friday, siding with hunters in a debate over deer baiting on private property. The bill prevents the Game and Fish Department from restricting bait use by landowners, despite the department’s opposition. Game and Fish testified that feeding bans help control chronic wasting disease (CWD), with Wildlife Veterinarian Charlie Bahnson calling restrictions an important management tool. However, Rep. Matt Ruby (R-Minot) argued the bans don’t affect disease spread. North Dakota has recorded 122 positive CWD tests since 2009, though supporters note only one confirmed case in a deer found dead near Williston. Rep. Ben Koppelman suggested more feeding sources could actually reduce the congregation of deer in large groups. Hunters showed strong support for the bill at the Capitol. It now heads to the governor for signature.