As of 2019, most bighorn sheep herds in Hells Canyon are M.ovi free thanks to the hard work of regional wildlife biologists. Now the goal is to keep them that way. Idaho, Oregon, and Washington’s Wild Sheep Foundations, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Washington Fish and Wildlife Department, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and partners have joined forces to form the Hells Canyon Initiative. This includes bighorn sheep monitoring programs led primarily by state agencies and partners, and a domestic animal health screening program led by Asotin County Conservation District. The goal of these efforts is to prevent another pneumonia outbreak. However, they can’t do it alone.
That’s where you come in. You can help keep our local bighorn sheep herds healthy! If you have domestic sheep and goats, we recommend getting them tested annually for M.ovi and as needed for sick, traveling, or new animals. All health screenings are free, voluntary, and confidential.
Please report bighorn sheep sightings to your local Fish & Wildlife Department if they seem to be at risk of interaction with domestic animals.
Content from Asotin County Conservation District, 2023