The New World Screwworm has also been a threat to the ag industry, and it has already caused a shutdown of cattle into the United States from Mexico. That route could soon reopen, and it is something that R-Calf finds concerning.
“We’re watching this very closely. The USDA is going to be required to report in the federal register, a decision if it does in fact, intend to reopen the border. While the screwworm problem remains a significant threat to our industry, are we going to strengthen our import controls to ensure that we do not introduce pernicious diseases that could adversely affect our entire domestic cattle industry? This is one that is glaring up in the face right now,” said Bill Bullard.
Last month, USDA rolled out an unorthodox plan to help protect the livestock industry from the New World Screwworm. They released male flies that are sterile, aiming to decrease the population.
While access to China remains uncertain, U.S. beef exporters are finding resilience and opportunity in other global markets, which could help maintain industry value and expand export opportunities.
February 11, 2026 02:41 PM
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Mike Spier, president and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates, discusses the new U.S.-Bangladesh trade agreement and its potential benefits for U.S. wheat growers.
February 11, 2026 12:37 PM
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Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.
February 10, 2026 04:11 PM
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Dr. Kelly Bruns from the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture discusses how the college prepares students for careers in agriculture.
February 10, 2026 02:27 PM
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Bankruptcy filings reflect prolonged margin pressure, rising debt, and limited financial flexibility across farm country. Bigger operating loans are helping farms manage costs, but they also signal growing reliance on borrowed capital.
February 10, 2026 01:35 PM
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RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey was in Mission, Texas, where state and federal officials addressed growers and producers at a round table event hosted at a citrus grower’s facility. He shows us how welcome news was all around.
February 10, 2026 12:05 PM
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