Wisconsin DNR corrects vote totals on CWD bounties program

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Corrected results from a survey of outdoor enthusiasts still show broad support for reviving a program to offer bounties for deer carcasses infected with chronic wasting disease.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources on Thursday revised totals from a survey of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, a citizen group that advises the agency.

The original results for the deer payment program showed 64% in favor, 36% against. The corrected results show 57% in support, 43% against.

The DNR says the mistake in the tally was made when merging results from the online survey and those who answered in person at the statewide spring meetings earlier this month.

The plan calls for paying hunters and landowners between $750 and $1,250 per CWD-positive deer and $300 to businesses that open carcass drop-off sites.