Hunting season in Spokane County, Washington, has started with an unexpected challenge. Two dangerous wildlife diseasesChronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD)are affecting the local deer, elk, and moose populations. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is actively working to manage these diseases and limit their spread, but they are asking hunters to take special precautions during the season. CWD, a fatal neurological disease, has been confirmed in some wildlife populations across eastern Washington. It affects the nervous system of deer, elk, and moose, causing irreversible damage and eventual death. As CWD spreads in the region, wildlife officials are emphasizing the importance of monitoring for the disease, particularly in deer populations. Hunters are required to present samples from the heads and necks of harvested game for testing. These samples will be used to track and monitor the prevalence of CWD in the area. In addition to CWD, hunters in the region are also dealing with the outbreak of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), commonly known as blue tongue. This disease is spread by infected midges, which bite deer, causing internal hemorrhaging and often death. EHD has been particularly impactful in the deer population, with thousands of animals reported sick or dead. This disease typically results in rapid death and often leaves no time for hunters to react before the animals succumb to the illness. The WDFW has issued guidelines for hunters in affected areas, including mandatory submission of animals for testing. Hunters who harvest or salvage animals in specific regions are required to provide tissue samples from the animals head and neck. The department has established special check stations in the region to make this process as convenient as possible, but hunters are encouraged to follow guidelines and submit their samples promptly. These diseases are also affecting local businesses in Spokane County. Greg Weaver, a local business owner at Crown Foods, a meat processing service, explained how these diseases are impacting their operations. In previous years, their coolers would be packed with deer, but with the prevalence of CWD and EHD, fewer deer are being harvested and processed. Additionally, new laws require hunters to provide proof that the animal has been tested for CWD before the meat can be returned. This new requirement is causing significant delays in processing, as the testing can take up to six weeks. Hunters are also encouraged to report any sick or dead deer they encounter during the season. By submitting reports to the WDFW website, hunters play an important role in tracking the spread of these diseases. The departments website includes a tool for reporting observations of animals exhibiting symptoms of EHD or CWD. As the hunting season progresses, these health concerns are a critical issue for both hunters and local wildlife businesses. The WDFW continues to provide updated information and guidelines to ensure that hunters are aware of the risks and are following the appropriate measures to prevent the spread of these diseases.