Deer Sample Collection Stations

CWD Home

CWD Surveillance Zone Information

CWD Test Results Look-Up

Graphic of an keyboard with a key labeled "FAQ"

CWD Frequently Asked Questions

Deer Sample Collection Stations

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife has established Deer Sample Collection Stations at several locations across the state. At these locations, hunters may submit the heads of their legally harvested and telechecked deer for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) testing and aging.

Since 2002, the department has CWD-tested now more than 39,000 deer and elk for CWD from every county in the state. Hunters harvested most of those animals. Each county has been represented by multiple deer samples being tested. In addition, CWD Results can be reviewed at app.fw.ky.gov/cwdlookup.

CWD has not been found in the State of Kentucky. To see which states have confirmed CWD in deer or elk, check out the US Geological Survey’s CWD Map.

Interactive Map of Deer Sample Collection Stations

The Deer Sample Collection Stations are strategically located to enhance sample collection in areas receiving fewer samples previously and ensure that anyone across the state has an opportunity to have a harvested deer tested for CWD.

There is no cost to hunters for submitting their legally-harvested deer for CWD testing.

Lab testing and age determination may take up to 10 weeks. Results will be available to hunters via this webpage. The department will notify the hunter if the hunter-submitted sample tests positive for CWD.

Hunters who intend to submit a deer head for testing and age determination should:

Remove any antlers, if present, and preserve the head with at least 4 inches of the neck attached.
Place the head in a garbage bag and seal the open end with a knot. Garbage bags will be available at each location.
Fill out a biological sample tag. Hunters must provide their name, phone number, email address, telecheck confirmation number, county of harvest, indicate if the deer was male or female and if the deer was harvested on public land.
The top portion of the tag should be attached to the garbage bag. Zip ties will be provided at each location. Hunters should keep the bottom portion of the completed tag for their records.
- Use the sample ID on the bottom portion of the tag to look up results using the following link: Chronic Wasting Disease Lookup App.
Place the bag containing the sample into the freezer.

Step-by-step instructions will be posted at each location.

Interactive Map of Deer Sample Collection Stations

Translate Page