NCBA Responds to Latest Screwworm Development in Mexico

“It is extremely concerning for the American cattle industry that New World screwworm has moved so far north in Mexico and now is just 70 miles from the border. The speed that screwworm has moved through Mexico is a reminder that this pest poses a critical and urgent threat to America’s cattle producers.

“NCBA appreciates all the resources Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has invested in protecting American agriculture from the New World screwworm. Designating funds for a domestic sterile fly facility, exploring new technologies for sterilizing flies, enhancing fly surveillance, and coordinating with other departments across the U.S. government are all important steps for safeguarding the U.S. cattle industry. We are also encouraged by the Food and Drug Administration’s work to authorize emergency treatments for screwworm, and we look forward to additional product approvals.

“With the threat so close, we need more sterile fly dispersal to push this pest back from our border. Now is the time for USDA to expedite construction of the domestic sterile fly facility and eradicate this pest from our doorstep. We also ask USDA to continue holding Mexico accountable and urge them to reduce animal movements that could spread screwworm north. NCBA is also urging the Environmental Protection Agency to authorize new pesticide products to combat screwworm and provide another tool for American cattle producers.

“NCBA will continue working to protect the U.S. cattle industry from New World screwworm.”

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy.  As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef.  Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.