IDNR Reminds Hunters to Use Check Stations in CWD Counties

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is reminding firearm deer hunters that mandatory check stations will be open this year in counties where chronic wasting disease has been detected. The 2025 firearm deer season runs today through November 23rd and Dec. 4-7, with new check stations added in Bureau, Ford, and Lee counties. Mandatory CWD surveillance now covers 18 counties, including Boone, Bureau, Carroll, DeKalb, Ford, Grundy, Jo Daviess, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, LaSalle, Lee, Livingston, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Will, and Winnebago. Hunters in these counties must use check stations from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voluntary check stations will be open in Adams County, and hunters in Adams and Peoria counties can report deer online or by phone. Deer can also be tested for CWD at taxidermists, meat processors, and designated drop-off locations statewide.