Ken Erickson, a long-time Saskatchewan hunter, has been impacted by the provincial government’s decision to end the chronic wasting disease testing program. This move comes after years of low participation from hunters. Chronic wasting disease is a neurodegenerative condition affecting cervids like deer, elk, and moose.

Erickson, who has been hunting in Saskatchewan since the early 1970s, emphasized the importance of safety for his family, especially due to his wife’s compromised immune system. He expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with the disease and its transmission to humans.

Despite his passion for hunting, Erickson has shifted his focus to bird hunting due to the challenges of handling big game alone and the risks posed by chronic wasting disease. He highlighted the need for science-based decisions rather than politically motivated choices regarding wildlife management.

Darrell Crabbe, the executive director of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, criticized the government’s decision to end the testing program, emphasizing its significance in ensuring the safety of meat consumed by hunters. The termination of the program has raised concerns among the hunting community, with some expressing worries about the disease’s potential spread and the lack of consultation prior to the decision.

The Saskatchewan government stated that wildlife health monitoring will continue through alternative methods, but critics like Ryan Brook, a professor at the University of Saskatchewan, argue that canceling the program without addressing its challenges is a disservice to the community. The decision has sparked calls for the reinstatement of the testing program and a more comprehensive approach to wildlife management.

The financial implications of ending the chronic wasting disease testing program have also been highlighted, with Crabbe pointing out that the losses could far exceed the costs of the program. There are growing demands for the government to take concrete actions beyond data collection to mitigate the risks associated with the disease.

In conclusion, stakeholders like Erickson and Crabbe are advocating for a collaborative approach to address the challenges posed by chronic wasting disease and ensure the sustainability of hunting practices in Saskatchewan.