12/18/2025
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has confirmed a positive chronic wasting disease (CWD) test in a road-killed deer in Wayne County, the first case in the area. Wayne County is within the CWD Management Zone, so wildlife feeding and carcass transportation restrictions are already in effect.
Deer hunting season dates and regulations remain unchanged. Hunters are eligible for the Earn-a-Buck Program, allowing them to earn additional bucks by harvesting antlerless deer and submitting them for testing. Those who already submitted antlerless deer this fall will receive credit. More information is available at CWDinTN.org.
Key restrictions in Wayne County include:
Deer carcasses may move within and between counties in the CWD Management Zone.
Whole or field-dressed carcasses and unapproved parts cannot leave the zone; approved parts (deboned meat, cleaned antlers/skulls, cleaned teeth, taxidermy products, hides) may be transported statewide.
Feeding deer with grain, salt, minerals, or similar products is prohibited, except near residences, to exclude deer, for authorized wild hog management, or as part of normal agricultural/forest practices.
CWD testing is available through participating taxidermists, meat processors, and drop-off freezers. Wayne County hunters can use the drop-off freezer at Beech Creek Fire Hall, 5775 Beech Creek Road, Waynesboro.
CWD is a progressive, fatal disease affecting the nervous system of cervids, including deer, elk, and moose. TWRA has submitted approximately 8,400 samples this season to certified laboratories.
For details on regulations and freezer locations, visit CWDinTN.org.