ST. PAUL, Minn. (RFD-TV) — A decade-long debate in Minnesota between the state’s Department of Natural Resources and the private deer farming industry is approaching a potential turning point, with concerns over Chronic Wasting Disease at the center of the dispute. Roger McEowen from the Washburn University School of Law joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to provide legal context and insight into the ongoing conflict and what could come next.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, McEowen explained that the issue stems from the state’s efforts to control and prevent the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease, a fatal neurological illness affecting deer and other cervids. He discussed how those concerns have prompted increased state regulation and management proposals, including requirements that directly affect deer farmers.
McEowen also addressed the financial implications of those management strategies, particularly the costs associated with fencing and containment systems, noting that such infrastructure can be expensive for producers to install and maintain. He outlined how these costs have contributed to industry challenges.
Additionally, McEowen discussed the decline in the number of white-tailed deer farms operating in Minnesota in recent years, explaining how regulatory pressure and disease concerns have led some operations to exit the industry altogether.
The conversation also turned to the legal path forward, as the Minnesota Supreme Court could hear the case. McEowen explained what it could mean for the industry if the court declines to take it up and how existing rulings would stand in that scenario. Finally, he shared his perspective on whether the case outcome could have broader implications for agriculture beyond deer farming, particularly for how states regulate animal health and disease management across livestock industries.
Firm to Farm: A Property Rights Battle in Minnesota over Deer Farming and CWD
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
November 25, 2025 12:05 PM
·
A regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture, prepared by RFD-TV Markets Specialist Tony St. James, for the week of Monday, November 24, 2025.
November 24, 2025 02:56 PM
·
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller warns horse owners after EHV-1 cases linked to the Waco WPRA Finals. Horses linked to recent Waco events should be isolated and closely monitored, as early action is critical to stopping the spread of EHV-1.
November 24, 2025 02:47 PM
·
Farmers with unpaid Hansen-Mueller grain should verify delivery records immediately and file indemnity claims quickly, as coverage rules differ sharply by state.
November 24, 2025 02:32 PM
·
Olivia Bury, AgriSafe Network Behavioral Health Coordinator, shares about AgriSafe Network’s resources created to support farmers and rural Americans.
November 24, 2025 01:04 PM
·
Jael Cruikshank, the newly elected Western Region Vice President, shares her story on this week’s FFA Today.
November 24, 2025 12:52 PM
·
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, provides the latest insight into the timing, expectations, and broader considerations of the potential aid package, despite increasing exports to China.
November 24, 2025 12:42 PM
·
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen reviews the history of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule and outlines how shifting definitions across multiple administrations have created regulatory confusion for landowners.
November 24, 2025 12:38 PM
·
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) estimates that the move will save farmers and ranchers $2.5 billion each year. The group warns that new methods for calculating the adverse-effect wage rate would result in lower pay for foreign workers.
November 24, 2025 11:32 AM
·
