This bill (S.F. No. 2302) relates to agriculture and modifies regulations concerning farmed Cervidae (deer species) in Minnesota, specifically regarding chronic wasting disease (CWD) management. The key provisions include:

• Annual Inventory Requirement: Farmed Cervidae herd inventories must be verified by an accredited veterinarian and submitted to the Minnesota Board of Animal Health every 12 months.
• Movement Reporting: Any movement of farmed Cervidae must be reported to the Board within 14 days. Farmed white-tailed deer from a CWD-positive herd cannot be moved to another location.
• Mandatory CWD Testing: All farmed Cervidae over six months old that die or are slaughtered must be tested for CWD.
• CWD-Positive Herd Management: If CWD is detected on a premises, the owner must:
  1. Allow and cooperate with inspections by state agencies.
  2. Depopulate the infected herd after completing the federal indemnification process or within 30 days if indemnification is not sought.
  3. Maintain fencing for ten years after the detection of CWD.
  4. Post biohazard signs as directed.
  5. Prohibit the raising of farmed Cervidae on the premises for at least ten years.
  6. Disclose the CWD detection and depopulation date when selling or transferring the property.
  7. Record a notice of CWD detection with the county recorder, which remains in effect for ten years.

Additionally, farm owners are responsible for properly disposing of CWD-positive animals as determined by the board.

This legislation aims to strengthen CWD surveillance, containment, and biosecurity measures for farmed Cervidae in Minnesota.