The feeding of deer and elk continues to be prohibited throughout much of northwestern Minnesota as the state remains vigilant about ensuring the health of these herds and agricultural livestock.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) enacted the ban in November 2006 to comply with a new state law restricting deer and elk feeding within 15 miles of any cattle farm infected with bovine tuberculosis (TB). To make the ban enforceable, specific reference points were established to create an identifiable boundary.
“The ban was a prudent action and its continuation makes sense as well,” said Lou Cornicelli, DNR big game program coordinator.
In Michigan, which is the only other state with bovine TB in its wild deer herd, natural resource agency staff has provided compelling evidence that the disease can be maintained in wild deer through supplemental feeding.
The Minnesota ban makes it illegal to place or have food that is capable of attracting wild deer and elk. People who feed birds or small mammals must do so in a manner that precludes access to deer and elk or place the food at least six feet above ground level. Food placed as a result of normal agricultural practices is generally exempted from this rule. But cattle operators are advised to take steps that minimize contact between deer and cattle.
To date, about 2,000 deer have been tested for bovine TB. Thirteen positives have been confirmed. All 13 positives have been found from the core bovine TB area in northwestern Minnesota.
For the map of the area in northwestern Minnesota where deer and elk feeding is banned, visit the DNR Web site at
http://www.mndnr.gov
