R-CALF USA is calling on the FDA to approve ivermectin to help protect livestock from the possible spread of New World screwworm in the U.S.
The group says that feed-grade ivermectin is a proven tool to protect domestic herds and wildlife, especially in southern border states.
They highlight the success of the drug in limiting the spread of cattle fever tick.
“The potential impact on the United States livestock markets would be immensely negative if an actual case of New World screwworm was identified in the USA. Until an adequate response with gamma ray irradiation of male screw worm flies can be implemented, the feeding of ivermectin is a very real defense.”
The request follows false reports that New World screwworm was found in Missouri. That claim caused a downturn in cattle futures markets and is now being investigated by the state of Missouri.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
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President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week to accelerate domestic production of phosphorus and glyphosate, signaling that farm input availability is now treated as a national security risk.
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Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller joins us to discuss the cattle herd rebuild, trade concerns, and how ranchers would define “America First” policy priorities.
February 13, 2026 12:50 PM
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The USDA opened a new sterile fly-dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in South Texas to prevent a potential outbreak of New World screwworm and protect the small U.S. cattle herd.
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Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association discusses the EPA’s new decision on over-the-top Dicamba and what it means for growers this year.
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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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