New Fly Dispersal Facility Celebrated as Major Step in Combating New World Screwworm Threat

(Edinburg, TX, February 9, 2026) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke L. Rollins, alongside Texas Governor, Greg Abbott, has announced a landmark development in the ongoing fight against the New World Screwworm (NWS). The inauguration of a U.S.-based sterile fly dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg is a vital advancement in USDA’s strategy to control this devastating agricultural pest.

Significant Progress Against NWS

“The Trump Administration continues to bring the full force of the federal government to combat New World Screwworm,” stated Secretary Rollins. “This sterile fly dispersal facility is a high-priority project, delivered in record time. Its completion marks a monumental achievement for our preparedness efforts and reflects our relentless determination to protect American agriculture.”

Governor Abbott emphasized Texas’s commitment to address the challenge posed by screwworm: “We’ve mobilized resources necessary for a Texas-sized response. Our gratitude goes to Secretary Rollins and President Trump for their critical support in safeguarding our ranchers and wildlife.”

Comprehensive NWS Response Initiatives

In June 2025, Secretary Rollins laid out a robust five-pronged plan aimed at enhancing USDA’s capabilities to detect, control, and eliminate New World Screwworms. As part of this initiative, the establishment of the sterile fly dispersal facility in South Texas will strengthen USDA’s effort in reinforcing pest control along the U.S.-Mexico border.

On January 30, 2026, USDA announced a strategic shift in its sterile fly dispersal operations towards the U.S.-Mexico border, ensuring a prompt response to any shifts in NWS infestation patterns from Mexico.

Sterile Insect Technique: A Proven Approach

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is an established method for controlling NWS. By releasing irradiated sterile male flies into the environment, mating occurs but no viable offspring are produced, leading to a gradual decline in the pest population. This technique, complimented by comprehensive surveillance and public education, is pivotal in mitigating the screwworm threat.

Investments in International Production Facilities

USDA currently collaborates with the COPEG facility in Panama for sterile fly production and is investing $21 million to revamp a facility in Metapa, Mexico, aimed at doubling NWS production capacity by summer 2026. The new facility in Edinburg is expected to generate up to 300 million sterile flies per week, further strengthening USDA’s arsenal against NWS.

Community Vigilance: Keeping an Eye on Livestock

While there have been no reported cases of NWS in the U.S., USDA urges livestock owners to remain vigilant. Signs of infestation include unusual wounds and discomfort in animals. If any suspicious signs are noticed, immediate reporting to state animal health officials or USDA veterinarians is critical.

Conclusion: A Unified Front Against NWS

The completion of the sterile fly dispersal facility signals a determined fight against the New World Screwworm and strengthens cooperative efforts between federal and state agencies. As the USDA ramps up its action plan, the ongoing partnership aims to protect agricultural integrity while ensuring public awareness and engagement are prioritized.

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