Foreign Animal Diseases
Agragene is developing a precision sterile insect system as part of USDA’s New World Screwworm Grand Challenge.
Farm Bureau members met with congressional leaders, USDA officials and White House staff to discuss issues affecting agriculture.
Linda Jordens Galayda said the program gave her the confidence and practical knowledge to improve her family’s ranch after taking over the operation
Industry leaders say continued monitoring, communication, and prevention efforts will be key to keeping U.S. livestock herds protected from foreign animal disease threats.
Rising Prime beef production has prompted the USDA to review grading standards as cattle producers navigate quality changes, screwworm concerns, and ongoing market volatility.
The livestock industry continues watching for spread while agencies focus on containment, surveillance, and response efforts.
The NCBA says the Senate Farm Bill strengthens key cattle programs but leaves Proposition 12 and year-round E15 unresolved while officials respond to New World screwworm cases.
Texas livestock specialists say the pasture mealybug, an invasive insect, has been confirmed in 70 counties since its discovery in 2025.
South Texas producers remain on alert for New World screwworm, stressing that reporting suspected cases is key to expanding sterile fly releases and slowing its spread.
Dry conditions, tight cattle supplies and border challenges continue to shape the outlook for the U.S. beef industry.