Information Sources and Knowledge about Chronic Wasting Disease in Colorado and Wisconsin.

This research note examines hunters' and non-hunters' information sources and knowledge about chronic wasting disease (CWD). Data were obtained from surveys of Colorado (n = 1,315) and Wisconsin (n = 360) resident hunters, and resident non-hunters in Wisconsin (n = 253). In response to true/false knowledge statements about CWD, 32% of Wisconsin hunters, 40% of Wisconsin non-hunters, and 44% of Colorado hunters failed to answer at least half of the statements correctly. The most effective sources at improving Wisconsin hunters' CWD knowledge were the Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) website, WDNR secretary column, and local newspapers. The WDNR newsletter was the only source that improved Wisconsin non-hunters' CWD knowledge. In Colorado, effective sources included newspapers and the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) website and hunting regulations brochure. Understanding relationships among commonly used and effective sources of CWD information may allow wildlife agencies to better inform and educate their publics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]