Elk meat to be donated to needy families, antlers used for educational puposes

A spokesperson for the Missouri Department of Conservation confirmed on Thursday the elk that was shot and killed in northern Boone County is currently being tested for diseases.

The spokesperson said if nothing is detected the meat will be donated to needy families.

The MDC confirmed on Monday that a 14-year-old girl shot and killed an elk while she was deer hunting.

MDC administration said the incident provides an opportunity to reinforce the importance that every hunter needs to be sure of his or her target. The spokesperson said if hunters do not know what they are looking at, they should not shoot.

The antlers and hide from the animal will be used for educational purposes to further the understanding of elk history in Missouri, as well as to help compare elk features to those of deer.

The MDC said there will be no information released if there will be enforcement actions taken.