A Community-Based Research Approach to Develop Chronic Wasting Disease Outreach with Tribal Communities

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal and contagious neurological disease of cervid populations across North America. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders are necessary to minimize CWD prevalence, spread, and impacts on animal and human health and well-being. However, critical information related to CWD epidemiology, management, and animal and human health risks was not effectively reaching Tribal Nations and their members. To understand these gaps and specific information needs and ensure meaningful participation in CWD management and control efforts, university researchers and Tribal members partnered to conduct semi-structured interviews that focused on deer hunting and the perceived impacts of CWD on Tribal communities. Interviews provided insights into information preferences, knowledge gaps, and perspectives on CWD, revealing a strong sense of responsibility toward deer and the environment. From this collaborative approach, we can create culturally tailored educational resources that address CWD concerns and align with Tribal values.