The fight against New World Screwworm is getting expensive. NCBA says full eradication is costly, which is why prevention is a top priority.
“The dominoes in Central America fell fast, and we saw it from November of last year up and through the winter into the spring, we saw this disease move quickly through Central America into Mexico, and that is why such an urgent concern for the United States now because it is right at our southern neighbor, and we’ve got to make sure we keep it out of the U.S. cattle herd. It is an extremely expensive disease to eradicate once you have it, so prevention is worth everything here,” said Sigrid Johannes of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
One facility producing sterile flies is up and running in Panama. Mexico is currently working on another, with one planned in Texas later this year.
Partnership with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Ensures Engineering Excellence and Operational Effectiveness
Mexican livestock officials are emphasizing surveillance and inspection systems to preserve access to the U.S. cattle export market. Texas’ Bovina Feeders explains the rising stakes as the border stays closed.
March 06, 2026 11:32 AM
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Texas lawmakers secure funding for sterile fly production as officials work to stop the New World screwworm from spreading into the U.S. cattle herd.
March 03, 2026 12:20 PM
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The closure of Lubbock Feeders highlights mounting pressure on the U.S. cattle supply, according to the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, as border restrictions and costs strain feedyards.
February 27, 2026 11:59 AM
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USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance payments could begin this weekend as producers face tight margins, shifting acreage expectations, cattle herd contraction, and growing pressure for a stronger farm safety net.
February 26, 2026 12:11 PM
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Analysts warn the closed U.S.-Mexico border is straining cattle supplies and packing capacity. StoneX and USDA data point to long-term industry shifts.
February 25, 2026 12:37 PM
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