Overview
- DNR leaders say food assistance disruptions tied to the federal shutdown are driving a surge in pantry demand within days.
- An average deer yields about 40 pounds of meat—roughly 160 meals—and the program typically receives more than 1,000 donated deer each year.
- Only deer harvested in Wisconsin are eligible for donation, and DHS requires CWD testing in designated counties before meat can be distributed.
- Hunters are instructed to field dress and ice carcasses, register through GameReg, contact a participating processor ahead of drop‑off, and provide CWD barcodes when applicable.
- Officials urge the use of lead‑free ammunition to reduce toxic fragments, processors hold venison until CWD results are confirmed, and monetary gifts can be made at license outlets or via Go Wild.