AKRON, Colo. (RFD NEWS) — As the USDA continues its monitoring efforts tied to the New World screwworm response. The agency says it is actively tracking more than 21,000 wild animals and does not believe there is widespread infestation at this time.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller says existing biosecurity practices have helped limit the spread of the pest. He says many safeguards for animal movement were already in place before the current outbreak.
“Before you can bring an animal into one of those areas, they have to be examined by a veterinarian,” Miller said. “You have to have a certificate of inspection. The vet has to inspect them and give them a certificate of clean health.”
Cattle industry groups say USDA and state animal health officials have responded quickly to the outbreak.
Sigrid Johannes with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) says the response plans developed over the past several years have helped officials manage the situation.
“You’ve seen Texas Animal Health Commission and USDA sort of leap into their response plan,” Johannes said. “Nobody was caught flat-footed here. The implementation of movement restrictions, inspection processes, and getting treatments to producers on the ground has run very smoothly so far.”
USDA currently reports 35 confirmed New World screwworm cases in the United States. Officials say there are no current plans to reopen the southern border for cattle trade.
Superior Livestock Auction’s Week in the Rockies wrapped up last week after offering a large volume of cattle and providing insight into current market conditions.
Mike Bolinger with Superior Livestock Auction joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the auction results, buyer demand, and what the event could signal heading into the fall market.
In his interview with RFD News, Bolinger discussed what stood out most about this year’s Week in the Rockies offering and the overall strength of the market throughout the auction. He also explained what was driving buyer demand and where competition was strongest during the sale.
Looking ahead to fall, Bolinger said Week in the Rockies plays an important role in price discovery and provides insight into what this year’s auction showed about market expectations. He also highlighted upcoming summer auctions from Superior Livestock and the opportunities still available for buyers and sellers.
For ranchers still deciding how to market their calves, Bolinger shared information on available options, consignment opportunities, and how producers can get started with Superior Livestock Auction.
LEARN MORE: www.superiorlivestock.com
