FORT WORTH, Texas (RFD-TV)— Cattle producers along the border are tightening safety protocols following the latest detection of New World Screwworm in Mexico, just 70 miles from the Texas border. The discovery raises fresh concerns about the threat to U.S. herds and the ongoing challenge of controlling the parasite.
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share what it’s been like working through an outbreak so close to home and what it could take to protect and rebuild the U.S. herd.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Cockrell explained the renewed risk this latest case poses for Texas producers, the current use of sterile fly releases in Mexico, and the expected role of a sterile fly facility in Texas. He also noted that industry leaders are calling for stronger protocols in light of the recent detection.
Cockrell discussed the continued delay in cattle movement across the border and its impact on producers, as well as his association’s support for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) effort to hold Mexico accountable for its failures in screwworm management. He also shares key steps and resources producers can consult to safeguard their herds.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
February 23, 2026 12:32 PM
·
For the broader agricultural industry, a railroad antitrust case in Kansas could lead to the dismantling of legacy regulatory shields, creating a more fluid, market-driven transportation grid that prioritizes moving crops efficiently over protecting historic rail monopolies.
February 23, 2026 11:35 AM
·
Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
February 23, 2026 11:08 AM
·
Domestic beef demand remains solid, with the strongest growth occurring through retail channels, according to consumers surveyed in the latest K-State Meat Demand Monitor.
February 22, 2026 09:00 AM
·
The long-term viability of a ranching operation often hinges on how effectively its owners navigate the overlapping layers of IRS regulations, state tax incentives, and USDA disaster programs.
February 20, 2026 04:43 PM
·
Fed cattle numbers are down two percent in February, according to the latest USDA report. Marketings fell 13 percent, signaling continued pressure on beef prices in 2026.
February 20, 2026 03:38 PM
·
