Infectious diseases are killing deer and risking rural US economies: ‘You smell the dead everywhere’

The rise of infectious diseases among deer is alarming landowners and hunters across rural America, as highlighted by James Barkhurst's shocking discovery of numerous dead deer on his property. This situation not only poses a threat to wildlife but also jeopardizes the hunting industry, which is vital for local economies. With the climate crisis exacerbating the spread of these diseases, the implications for both the environment and rural livelihoods are significant, making it a pressing issue that demands attention.