New Strategic Initiative Launched to Combat New World Screwworm Threat in Texas

The USDA, in partnership with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, has unveiled a comprehensive five-pronged strategy aimed at detecting, controlling, and ultimately eradicating the New World Screwworm. This initiative focuses on monitoring animal movement, enhancing surveillance systems, and applying proven sterilization techniques to combat this agricultural pest.

This plan has garnered widespread support from government officials and representatives of the cattle industry, particularly with the establishment of an $8.5 million sterile fly dispersal facility located at Moore Air Base in South Texas.

Government Officials Respond

Governor Greg Abbott

“Texas is on the front lines of the threat posed by the New World Screwworm. Proactive measures such as this dispersal facility are critical to ensure our state and nation are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively. We are appreciative of the ongoing support from the Trump Administration and Secretary Rollins,” stated Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

Representative Monica De La Cruz

“If we fail to act now, the New World Screwworm will devastate Texas livestock and wildlife. I am grateful to Secretary Rollins for promptly endorsing the establishment of this essential facility in Hidalgo County. My commitment lies in prioritizing Texas farmers and ranchers,” declared Rep. Monica De La Cruz from Texas’s 15th district.

Representative Tony Gonzales

“The policy changes we are implementing today signify a significant advancement in the fight against the screwworm and the protection of American livestock. Opening a U.S.-based eradication facility in South Texas aligns with my legislative goals, including the introduction of the STOP Screwworms Act,” remarked Rep. Tony Gonzales from Texas’s 23rd district.

Representative Vicente Gonzalez

“The return of the New World Screwworm is a concerning threat to South Texas ranchers and local wildlife. Its presence could severely disrupt our economy and food supply chain, and we must take immediate action to prevent this. I look forward to engaging with USDA and its partners to ensure the safety of our agricultural industry,” stated Rep. Vicente Gonzalez from Texas’s 34th district.

Representative Ronny Jackson

“The New World Screwworm represents a serious risk to our cattle and economy. With Secretary Rollins’ guidance and the USDA’s new 5-Prong Strategy, we are taking decisive steps to safeguard American farmers and ranchers,” noted Rep. Ronny Jackson from Texas’s 13th district.

Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller

“I am proud to collaborate with dedicated leaders such as USDA Secretary Rollins. Texas has historically championed American agriculture, and we are prepared to assist in safeguarding our livestock, economy, and food supply,” commented Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller.

Senator John Cornyn

“Stopping the spread of the destructive New World Screwworm is crucial to protecting Texas’s agricultural landscape, and the new sterile fly distribution facility in Edinburg is a promising development. I am committed to collaborating with Secretary Rollins to enhance our sterile fly production capabilities,” emphasized Sen. John Cornyn.

Industry Representatives Weigh In

Buck Wehrbein, NCBA President

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is committed to safeguarding America’s cattle producers. “The only effective means of protecting the American cattle herd from the New World Screwworm is through a sufficient supply of sterile flies. The Moore Air Base will be pivotal in our renewed eradication battles,” Wehrbein stated.

Russell Boening, Texas Farm Bureau President

“The Texas Farm Bureau commends U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for the advancement of a sterile insect production facility at Moore Air Base. This investment is vital for protecting our livestock and overall food supply,” remarked Boening, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the screwworm threat.

Laphe LaRoe, Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman-elect

“Secretary Rollins’ commitment to opening sterile fly dispersal facilities in South Texas significantly enhances our efforts to contain the screwworm. This initiative is a fundamental component in maintaining confidence in cattle and beef trade with Mexico,” expressed LaRoe.

Stephen Diebel, TSCRA First Vice President

“Today’s announcement is a critical step in shielding the U.S. cattle industry. Sterile flies are the key to halting the reproduction and spread of the New World Screwworm. We appreciate Secretary Rollins’ commitment to bolster domestic sterile fly production,” concluded Diebel.

Editor’s note: Some statements have been edited and/or condensed for style and clarity.

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