Illinois Will Offer Mail-In CWD Testing Kits
Hunters across Illinois can access testing kits for chronic wasting disease starting in the fall of 2026.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Hunting
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Do you plan to test harvested deer for chronic wasting disease this hunting season?
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will provide voluntary mail-in sampling kits to hunters beginning in the fall 2026 deer hunting season. The program allows hunters to screen harvested deer for chronic wasting disease.
Why it matters
The program simplifies the process for hunters to participate in disease surveillance by removing the need for in-person drop-off locations. This initiative aims to increase the volume of data collected regarding the prevalence of chronic wasting disease in the state.
Hunters are permitted to request two testing kits per order. Additional kits remain available for those who harvest more than two deer during the season.
The players
Illinois Department of Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for the management and conservation of natural resources, including the oversight of hunting regulations and wildlife health.
The details
Hunters can obtain these kits through an online portal or by directly contacting a district wildlife biologist. Once the kit is received, hunters are responsible for collecting lymph node samples from their harvested deer for laboratory analysis.
Timeline
The program and deer hunting season begin in the fall 2026.
Roadmap
This program reflects a broader shift toward decentralized wildlife monitoring in the state. By automating the request process, the agency aligns its disease tracking efforts with modern digital service expectations.
Hunters should prepare to utilize the online request portal once the season begins to ensure they have the necessary supplies before heading into the field. This service allows participants to manage sample collection independently, reducing travel time to regional testing stations.
The takeaway
The implementation of mail-in kits makes it easier for hunters to contribute to vital population health research. Participants should familiarize themselves with proper lymph node sampling techniques to ensure the tests provide accurate data.
Further reading
For more information on state wildlife regulations and health programs, visit Illinois Hunting.
More information
To request your sampling supplies, visit the CWD testing kit request portal.
Live Poll
Do you plan to test harvested deer for chronic wasting disease this hunting season?
