Description
This USDA‑APHIS cooperative agreement funds a two‑year wildlife research project focused on the spatial ecology and chronic wasting disease (CWD) dynamics of wild mule deer and white‑tailed deer in northern Colorado. The awardee will capture, GPS‑collar, and sample ~30–40 individuals of each species, conduct field monitoring, collect biological specimens, perform necropsies, and carry out spatial and statistical analyses. All data and metadata are shared with the National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC), which leads laboratory work while the awardee leads spatial analyses. The project supports development of live CWD tests and informs regional disease management. Funding is $413,380 (one award) with a performance period of up to 24 months (possible 12‑month extension). Eligible applicants include public/private colleges/universities and state/tribal governments. Submission is through ezFedGrants by 31 Aug 2026, 5 PM MST.
• Capture and GPS‑collar 30‑40 mule deer and 30‑40 white‑tailed deer
• Antemortem sampling for CWD and other pathogens; post‑mortem necropsy support
• Field monitoring, mortality response, data cleaning, and sharing
• Spatial analysis of movement data; laboratory analysis of samples
• Deliverables: reports, white papers, manuscripts, presentations
• Cooperative agreement: APHIS provides technical assistance; awardee leads spatial component
• Project length: up to 24 months (possible 12‑month extension)