Wildlife Officials Expand Baiting Regulations in Tensaw and Catahoula Parishes

In a significant move to manage Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Louisiana, the state legislature has approved new regulations that will allow limited baiting and feeding in certain areas previously restricted due to the disease. This decision, made during a meeting on September 4, 2025, marks a notable shift in the state's approach to wildlife management in response to the ongoing challenges posed by CWD.

The new regulations will permit baiting and feeding within a 15 to 25-mile radius of the original detection site in Tinsall Parish, a change from the strict prohibitions that have been in place since 2022. This adjustment is particularly relevant for residents and hunters in Madison, Tinsall, and Concordia Parishes, who will now have the opportunity to use baiting methods that were previously banned.

During the meeting, officials discussed the spread of CWD, noting that it has been detected along a 10-mile stretch of the Mississippi River, primarily affecting the eastern fringe of Tinsall Parish. While the disease has shown some presence, officials emphasized that it remains relatively confined, with only a few positive detections reported. This localized spread has led to questions about the necessity of stringent regulations in nearby Catahoula Parish, where only one detection has been recorded.

The decision to maintain a uniform 15-mile radius for CWD mitigation zones, despite the limited spread in Catahoula, was explained as a precautionary measure. Officials highlighted that the boundaries are based on the distance from positive detections, ensuring a consistent approach across affected areas. The rationale is to prevent potential future outbreaks and to manage the disease effectively.

As Louisiana continues to navigate the complexities of wildlife health and management, these new regulations reflect a balance between public interest and wildlife conservation efforts. The implications of this decision will be closely monitored as the state works to control CWD while also accommodating the needs of local communities.