Montana limits deer tags in Region 6 due to deadly EHD outbreak killing deer along the Milk River.

Montana has limited white-tailed doe hunting tags in northeastern Region 6 due to a severe epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) outbreak killing deer, primarily along the Milk River. The virus, spread by biting midges, causes rapid death in deer and has led to dozens of reported deaths in some areas, though impacts vary widely. EHD is not transmissible to humans, but officials advise against eating meat from sick animals. Outbreaks are typically seasonal and localized, with midges most active in warm, moist conditions. Cases have also been detected in western and northwestern Montana, including near Missoula and the Blackfoot River. The Fish and Wildlife Commission’s action aims to protect deer populations, echoing a 2013 response.