Source: Komo News
As of May 17, it is illegal to feed deer, elk, and moose in Washington State under a new rule enacted by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). The regulation aims to prevent the spread of disease by discouraging the unnatural congregation of these animals around feeding areas. It is also unlawful to place feed for other wildlife if it inadvertently attracts deer, elk, or moose. WDFW warns that such gatherings increase the risk of disease transmission, predation, and poaching.
In addition, feeding sites can draw animals across busy roads, raising the risk of vehicle collisions and posing safety hazards for both wildlife and motorists. The agency strongly discourages feeding wildlife year-round due to the health risks it poses. WDFW is also reviewing its own elk feeding programs, which are sometimes used to manage human-wildlife conflicts in agricultural zones, to ensure alignment with this new approach to wildlife health and safety.