Ken Erickson, a seasoned hunter in Saskatchewan since 1971, halted his pursuit of certain animals due to concerns about chronic wasting disease. Following the decision by the Saskatchewan government to discontinue its chronic wasting disease testing program, other hunters are contemplating a similar course of action.
Chronic wasting disease, a condition affecting the brains and nervous systems of cervids like deer, elk, and moose, prompted Erickson to prioritize his family’s safety, particularly his immunocompromised wife. Despite no reported cases of the disease in humans, Erickson expressed caution, stating, “I just don’t want to bring that into the house. I’m just not taking chances like that.”
Originally from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Erickson, who settled in Regina in the 1970s, has a rich hunting background, offering valuable insights to fellow hunters through publications and guiding experiences in northern Saskatchewan and northern Alberta.
While Erickson now focuses primarily on bird hunting due to the physical challenges of handling big game alone as he ages, he expressed a desire to hunt deer again if not for the risks associated with chronic wasting disease. Criticism of the government’s decision to end the testing program has also been voiced by others.
Darrell Crabbe, the executive director of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, highlighted the importance of the testing program in ensuring the safety of meat for consumption. The termination of the program has raised concerns among hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Moving forward, the Saskatchewan government plans to monitor wildlife health and populations using alternative methods. The termination of the chronic wasting disease testing program has sparked discussions about potential consequences and the need for proactive measures to address the risks associated with the disease.