North Dakota Restricts Deer Hunting Due to EHD Outbreak

Officials have suspended antlerless white-tailed deer hunting in four units to allow local populations to recover from virus losses.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Hunting

North Dakota Restricts Deer Hunting Due to EHD Outbreak

Live Poll

Do you support government restrictions on local hunting to help wildlife herds recover from disease?

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has officially prohibited antlerless white-tailed deer harvesting across four hunting units. This emergency measure aims to rebuild deer populations following hundreds of reported deaths linked to Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD).

Why it matters

The restrictions are designed to safeguard the local white-tailed deer herd after significant wildlife losses. By limiting harvests in the most impacted areas, wildlife managers hope to ensure the long-term sustainability of the population.

The hunting ban affects units 3C, 3E1, 3E2, and 3F2, encompassing youth, muzzleloader, deer gun, bow, and gratis license types. Additionally, hunters in 13 total units are now eligible for license refunds or bonus point restoration.

The players

North Dakota Game and Fish Department

This state agency is responsible for managing North Dakota's wildlife populations and implementing hunting regulations.

The details

EHD is a viral disease transmitted to deer through midge bites, leading to symptoms like swelling of the head, neck, and eyes. While the virus devastated populations in 2021, state officials confirmed that humans cannot contract EHD from infected animals or venison.

2021: The state experienced devastating EHD losses in deer herds.
October 19, 2026: North Dakota officials announced the new hunting restrictions.
Before deer gun season: Deadline for hunters to return licenses for refunds or bonus points.

Culture Shift

The response to the current EHD outbreak marks a shift toward more intensive management of regional wildlife populations. This strategy mirrors the ongoing trend of prioritizing conservation over harvest access in areas recovering from significant environmental disease.

Hunters holding licenses for antlerless white-tailed deer in the four restricted units must refrain from harvesting, as these permits are now invalid. Those with licenses in any of the 13 designated units should submit them before the deer gun season begins to secure refunds or restore their bonus points.

The takeaway

Wildlife management authorities urge hunters to remain vigilant for signs of EHD when in the field, such as changed tongue color or swollen features. While deer populations are recovering, these proactive measures are necessary to ensure the future health of the species in North Dakota.