BISMARCK, N.D. — North Dakota has canceled about 350 white-tailed doe licenses in four hunting units because of an outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD.

Governor Kelly Armstrong announced the immediate ban Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, affecting units in south-central North Dakota. Previously issued licenses in those areas are no longer valid, and hunters will automatically receive refunds.

South Dakota wildlife officials offer hunting license refunds as deer disease reports continue

State officials say about 80 percent of the roughly 400 reported EHD cases this year came from those four units. The disease spreads through bites from infected midges and causes internal bleeding in deer.

Venison from a deer with EHD is generally considered safe to eat because the virus does not infect humans, though wildlife and health officials strongly advise against consuming any deer that is visibly sick.

Hunters in 13 additional units in southwest and south-central North Dakota can also return buck and doe licenses for refunds.

The restrictions come ahead of the November third deer opener. Officials say reducing doe harvests will help deer populations recover from the outbreak.