Michigan deals with a considerable amount of bovine TB cases because the disease is endemic in the free-ranging white-tailed deer population in Michigan’s modified accredited zone (MAZ), a USDA designation for Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency and Oscoda counties. Cattle producers are required to watch closely and test for bovine TB each year to help ensure that the disease is identified early and prevent it from moving off the farm.
Michigan’s Assistant State Veterinarian Nancy Barr said anything shared by deer and cattle can be a potential source of bovine tuberculosis infection. “Preventing deer from having contact with cattle feed, feed storage or watering areas is crucial for farmers in this area of Michigan and a part of wildlife biosecurity programs being implemented,” she said in a news release.
As of Oct. 4, four deer in the MAZ area have been confirmed positive, although so far, none have been found in Alcona County.
Two informational meetings will be held to discuss the latest developments in the MAZ:
Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, at 7 p.m.
Elmer Township Hall
863 W. Kittle Rd., Mio, MI 48647
Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, at 7 p.m.
Hillman Community Center
24220 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Hillman, MI 49746 
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Carrie Veselka
- Associate Editor
- Progressive Cattleman
- Email Carrie Veselka
