Screwworm Near U.S. Border Threatens Texas Cattle Industry

The Threat of New World Screwworm in Texas

A dangerous parasitic fly known as the New World screwworm has been detected less than 400 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, raising serious concerns among Texas lawmakers and ranchers. This parasite poses a significant threat to the state’s cattle industry, which is the largest in the country. If it crosses into U.S. territory, the consequences could be devastating for farmers, consumers, and the broader economy.

U.S. Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, has expressed alarm over the situation. He stated that a case of the New World screwworm was recently reported just south of the border, and it may soon make its way into Texas. “This would be absolutely devastating to places like Texas, but also to the entire country,” Cornyn said during a Senate session. He emphasized that an outbreak could cost Texas livestock producers around $1 billion and have a ripple effect on the national economy, potentially costing up to $3.7 billion.

The New World screwworm was first identified in Mexico in November and has since been moving northward. The most recent confirmed case was in Ixhuatlan de Madero, Veracruz, approximately 370 miles south of McAllen, Texas. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this proximity has raised urgent concerns about the potential spread of the parasite across the border.

Impact on Livestock and Wildlife

Zapata County Judge Joe Rathmell, who is also a rancher, highlighted the growing anxiety among South Texas ranchers. For years, they have dealt with other pests like deer ticks, but the threat of the New World screwworm is far more severe. “Now the major concern is hopefully the screwworm won’t make it our way,” Rathmell told Border Report. “It would place a big hurt on any ranchers trying to handle cattle down here.”

Wildlife in the region, including deer and exotic game, is also at risk. These animals are particularly vulnerable to infection, and the male buck population could face significant harm if the parasite reaches the area. Wildlife populations have become an important part of the local economy, especially in rural areas with small populations.

Efforts to Combat the Parasite

To address the growing threat, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a federal initiative last month. Over $8 million in funding has been allocated to launch planes carrying sterile male screwworms from a former Air Force Base in western Hidalgo County. The goal is to target infection zones in Mexico and prevent the spread of the parasite.

However, Mexican farmers have struggled to manage the infestation. Reports indicate that treatment costs have skyrocketed, making it financially unfeasible for many ranchers. Some have turned to extreme measures, such as dousing infected cattle with gasoline or using tweezers to remove the larvae manually.

The New World screwworm is a fly whose larvae can infect and kill livestock. Female flies lay eggs in open wounds or sores, and the larvae burrow into the animal, causing severe infections. Infected animals can die within a week if not treated promptly.

Legislative Action and Future Steps

In May, Senator Cornyn and U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales introduced legislation to fund a $300 million facility in the United States for producing sterile flies to combat the spread of the parasite. The proposal aims to create a long-term solution to prevent future outbreaks.

Representative Monica De La Cruz also urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture to consider building the facility at Moore Air Base, the same location where planes carrying sterile flies are currently operating. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that ag producers across the country are sounding the alarm about the resurgence of the New World screwworm.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall praised the legislative efforts, noting that proactive steps now will provide long-term benefits for farmers and ranchers. Brody Peak, chairman of the Livestock Marketing Association’s Government and Industry Affairs Committee, added that establishing a sterile fly facility in the U.S. will help protect the nation’s cattle herd, food supply, and the livelihoods of countless agricultural workers.