CWD Information for Hunters

Voluntary CWD Check Stations

TPWD offers voluntary CWD check stations for those hunters who wish to voluntarily test their harvest. When you submit your harvest for testing, you help biologists gather data to better understand and manage CWD spread.

Voluntary CWD Check Stations

TPWD offers voluntary CWD check stations for those hunters who wish to voluntarily test their harvest.

Bring Harvest to Check Stations

TPWD staff will collect a tissue sample from the deer's head. There are specific guidelines for head removal and transport.

Get Your CWD Test Results

CWD testing is free; it takes about two weeks to get your results. Enter your six-digit CWD sample number here to find your result.

Taking Your Harvest to Check Stations

What to Expect at a CWD Check Station video

What to Expect at a Voluntary CWD Check Station

It only takes a few minutes, it's free and it helps manage the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

How to Use a CWD Test Drop Box

Even if a CWD check station is unattended, you can still drop off a sample of your harvest for testing.

CWD Regulations

Statewide Carcass Disposal Requirements

Deer carcasses or carcass parts transported away from the property of harvest must be properly disposed of.

Precautions for Hunters

Use common sense precautions while handling and processing your harvest. Never eat meat from an animal that appears sickly.

Exotic CWD-Susceptible Species

CWD rules apply statewide to harvested exotic CWD susceptible species.

Additional CWD Resources

Publications

PDF: Common Sense Precautions for Handling and Processing Deer

Websites

American Veterinary Medical Association Disease Precautions for Hunters

Frequently Asked Questions for Hunters

Why test for CWD?

Testing deer and other susceptible species for CWD allows wildlife biologists and animal health officials to get a clearer picture of the prevalence and distribution of the disease across Texas.
Proactive monitoring improves the state's response time to a CWD detection and can reduce the risk of the disease further spreading to neighboring deer populations

Where is the nearest voluntary check station?

Voluntary check stations are located across the state for hunters desiring to have their deer tested. For current information on voluntary check stations (including hours and locations), visit the map at the TPWD or Outdoor Annual websites. Call your local TPWD biologist, they will be happy to arrange for testing if you are not in a CWD zone.

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