JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Montana wildlife officials are asking their Wyoming counterparts to stop feeding elk after chronic wasting disease has appeared in the state.

Jackson Hole News and Guide reports the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission sent a letter last week to the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission, saying their elk feeding practices could accelerate the spread of the fatal, contagious disease.

The Montana letter says officials respect how Wyoming handles its affairs, but management of the disease in Montana is affected by what happens in the neighboring state.

Wyoming Game and Fish commissioner Mike Schmid says he had not seen the letter as of Wednesday. He says it requires more discussion before a decision is made.

Story re-posted from the Associated Press

Chronic Wasting Disease does not affect humans; but it does spread animal-to-animal. Livestock animals and pets are most at risk for carrying the neurological, and often times, fatal disease. To keep infected deer away from livestock animals, it's suggested that livestock owners install a high tensile fence, or deer fence. Elk Fence can also keep infected elk and deer at bay.