New World Screwworm Detections in Mexico Keep Southwestern Cattle Raisers on High Alert

Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Continued detections of New World screwworm in Mexico are keeping U.S. livestock producers on alert, as the industry works to stay informed and prepared for any potential threat.

Wayne Cockrell, Cattle Health and Well-Being Committee Chairman with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to provide an update on the situation and what producers should be watching closely.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Cockrell discussed where things currently stand with New World screwworm detections in Mexico and the importance of monitoring developments. He emphasized steps producers can take to stay protected and highlighted resources available to help them remain informed.

Cockrell also addressed what a potential outbreak in the United States could mean for the livestock industry, including possible ripple effects across production and markets. He explained the importance of early response, outlining key signs producers should be aware of and the first steps to take if they believe they have come into contact with the pest.

Related Stories
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Midland County Livestock Association President Brandon Mitchell reflects on another strong year for the event, including a premium sale that once again topped the million-dollar mark.
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share practical health and safety guidance for managing respiratory and skin health during the winter season.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
NASDA declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. President Amanda Beal joins us to share NASDA’s new hub, which highlights the impact of women in agriculture worldwide.
Matt Brockman, communications director for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, joined us to share a preview of the upcoming event.
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.