The city of Salem will be host to three chronic wasting disease courses in the month of June according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), chronic wasting disease is an illness that impacts deer, elk and similar animals in the United States. The disease is classified as a prion disease, meaning it always leads to death in infected animals. There are no reported cases of chronic wasting disease in humans, but studies suggest eating the meat of infected animals could have health risks.

The course is designed to help people effectively communicate about the management and mitigation of chronic wasting disease. It is open to hunters and non-hunters alike.

Registration for the course is now open. It will take place at the Crew Public Library from 6 to 8 p.m. on June 3, 10 and 17. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is coordinating the program in conjunction with the DNR.