PEA RIDGE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Chronic Wasting Disease has been detected at Pea Ridge National Military Park.

“One male deer tested positive, which is the first CWD-positive detection within the Military Park,” a news release from the park states.

In the fall, a deer reduction operation will begin to help reduce the deer population and help the local ecosystem by helping slow disease transmission rates.

The release states that there is currently no evidence that CWD can infect humans, pets, or livestock. However, it is recommended that tissues from CWD-infected animals not be eaten.

Since 2016, CWD has been present in Arkansas and Benton County since 2018, the news release states.

What does this mean for park visitors?

The Pea Ridge National Military Park has released the following information for anyone visiting the park after the park had found Chronic Wasting Disease.

• If you see sick or dead wildlife, avoid contact with the animal and notify a National Park Service employee as soon as possible.
• Most animals in parks are healthy and thrive in their natural environment, but sometimes wildlife can get sick just like people.
• Always keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid touching or handling dead or sick wild animals. Some disease-causing organisms can be passed between wild animals and people.
• National Park Service employees trained in wildlife health use specific protective measures to safely deal with a wild animal that may have died of disease.
• It is recommended that people not eat any part of an animal that is suspected or confirmed to have CWD.