---
title: "DNR Wants Deer From 5 Counties Tested for CWD"
url: https://www.herenorthville.com/2026/10/13/michigan-dnr-cwd-deer-testing-five-counties/
date: 2026-10-13T09:36:15-04:00
modified: 2026-10-13T09:36:15-04:00
author: "HERE City State Desk"
categories: ["News"]
site: "HERE Northville"
attribution: "HERE Northville"
---

# DNR Wants Deer From 5 Counties Tested for CWD

> LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters who take deer in five west Michigan counties this season to turn in the heads for chronic wasting disease testing. The focus counties are Mecosta, Newaygo, Kent, Montcalm and Ionia. The state last did intensive sampling there in 2019, and biologists want to

*Source: [HERE Northville](https://www.herenorthville.com/2026/10/13/michigan-dnr-cwd-deer-testing-five-counties/) — October 13, 2026 by HERE City State Desk*

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters who take deer in five west Michigan counties this season to turn in the heads for chronic wasting disease testing.

The focus counties are Mecosta, Newaygo, Kent, Montcalm and Ionia. The state last did intensive sampling there in 2019, and biologists want to learn how much the disease has spread since then before deciding on management options.

Testing is free for deer from those counties when they go through state drop boxes or staffed sites, and every head is also screened for bovine tuberculosis. Drop boxes are open around the clock through Jan. 4, 2027, at the Haymarsh Hunt Club in Morley, the Kent County Road Commission in Walker and the Paris and Flat River field offices.

The Paris and Flat River offices also take samples in person from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on set days, starting Mondays, Oct. 19 and 26. Hunters outside the focus area can order a free self-sample kit.

CWD is a fatal brain disease in deer with no known cure, and infected animals can spread it for a long time before they look sick.

The disease is now known in 18 Michigan counties and 37 states. State officials say it has not been shown to spread to people.