Texas Takes Action Against New World Screwworm Threat
Submitted by MAGA Student
Posted 8 hours ago
**Threat to Texas Agriculture Countered with Swift Action**
Texas farmers and ranchers can breathe a sigh of relief as decisive measures are being taken to thwart the invasive New World Screwworm from breaching the state’s borders.
This parasitic threat, which has been wreaking havoc on cattle populations in Mexico, is regarded as a dire danger to Texas’ thriving $15 billion cattle industry and its wildlife. The urgency of the situation has prompted immediate attention from officials at both the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Dudley Hoskins, the USDA Under Secretary, informed Texas House lawmakers that the fight against this pest has become a top priority under the Trump administration. The USDA has launched an aggressive response plan that includes the installation of over 120 screwworm traps along the Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California borders.
The proactive measures have proven successful so far, as no New World Screwworms have been detected crossing into the United States. According to Hoskins, the 14 confirmed cases within 400 miles of the border relate exclusively to cattle movement rather than an infestation of screwworms advancing northward.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller emphasized the vital role the state’s Department of Agriculture is playing in ensuring not only prevention but also preparation for any potential incursions. This includes collaborating with the FDA to expedite critical approvals for new treatment technologies such as the promising anti-parasitic drug “EXO.”
Meanwhile, a new sterile fly production facility is being developed at the Moore Air Force Base, which is expected to enhance efforts against the screwworm by producing significant quantities of sterile flies. This facility is projected to begin operations within the next 12 to 18 months, a timeline that officials recognize as challenging but essential to the eradication of the pest.
Despite criticisms over aspects of the USDA's response plan from industry representatives, including concerns about compliance with cattle movement regulations, the consensus remains that comprehensive strategies are in place to protect Texas livestock.
While challenges persist, including the upcoming spring season when the screwworm may be more likely to thrive, stakeholders in Texas are resolved to work in harmony with federal partners. They aim not only to safeguard the health of their cattle but also to maintain robust trade relationships that Texas ranchers rely on.
Through strong leadership and proactive actions, Texas is poised to combat the threat of the New World Screwworm effectively, demonstrating that under careful guidance and a commitment to proactive measures, the state can safeguard its agricultural legacy and economic vitality.
Sources:
yahoo.com
texastribune.org
cnbc.com
Texas farmers and ranchers can breathe a sigh of relief as decisive measures are being taken to thwart the invasive New World Screwworm from breaching the state’s borders.
This parasitic threat, which has been wreaking havoc on cattle populations in Mexico, is regarded as a dire danger to Texas’ thriving $15 billion cattle industry and its wildlife. The urgency of the situation has prompted immediate attention from officials at both the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Dudley Hoskins, the USDA Under Secretary, informed Texas House lawmakers that the fight against this pest has become a top priority under the Trump administration. The USDA has launched an aggressive response plan that includes the installation of over 120 screwworm traps along the Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California borders.
The proactive measures have proven successful so far, as no New World Screwworms have been detected crossing into the United States. According to Hoskins, the 14 confirmed cases within 400 miles of the border relate exclusively to cattle movement rather than an infestation of screwworms advancing northward.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller emphasized the vital role the state’s Department of Agriculture is playing in ensuring not only prevention but also preparation for any potential incursions. This includes collaborating with the FDA to expedite critical approvals for new treatment technologies such as the promising anti-parasitic drug “EXO.”
Meanwhile, a new sterile fly production facility is being developed at the Moore Air Force Base, which is expected to enhance efforts against the screwworm by producing significant quantities of sterile flies. This facility is projected to begin operations within the next 12 to 18 months, a timeline that officials recognize as challenging but essential to the eradication of the pest.
Despite criticisms over aspects of the USDA's response plan from industry representatives, including concerns about compliance with cattle movement regulations, the consensus remains that comprehensive strategies are in place to protect Texas livestock.
While challenges persist, including the upcoming spring season when the screwworm may be more likely to thrive, stakeholders in Texas are resolved to work in harmony with federal partners. They aim not only to safeguard the health of their cattle but also to maintain robust trade relationships that Texas ranchers rely on.
Through strong leadership and proactive actions, Texas is poised to combat the threat of the New World Screwworm effectively, demonstrating that under careful guidance and a commitment to proactive measures, the state can safeguard its agricultural legacy and economic vitality.
Sources:
yahoo.com
texastribune.org
cnbc.com
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