Federation Worries About CWD Infecting Caribou

Federation Worries About CWD Infecting Caribou

Friday, August 13, 2004 at 16:03

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation says Chronic Wasting Disease could potentially infect the caribou population.

SWF Exective Director Darrell Crabbe says because artificially infected moose contracted the disease, there is the possibility CWD could cross over into the caribou population.

Crabbe adds putting an end to game farming is the only way to lessen the impact of CWD on mule deer and the potential future impact on caribou.

Meantime, the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations is calling for an increased role in battling the spread of the disease.

FSIN vice chief Lawrence Joseph says CWD is threatening traditional food sources for First Nations people, and for that reason, the FSIN must be allowed to lead the campaign against the disease.

Joseph also says First Nations people were Canada’s first environmentalists and are the traditional, historical and spiritual stewards of Canada’s resources — including wildlife.