The cattle markets will be closely watching the USDA’s new plan to reopen the southern border for livestock trade. Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says both sides of the border have made a lot of progress in recent weeks in combatting New World Screwworm.
The Department has launched a phased reopening as soon as Monday, starting in Douglas, Arizona because of its lowest risk. If things go to plan, Sec. Rollins says more ports will open in New Mexico and then Texas. Those additional reopenings will depend on the number of cases and the potential for the pest to travel North.
NCBA is showing its appreciation. CEO Colin Woodall calls the plan “measured” and “thoughtful.” NCBA was on board with the decision to close the border back in May, saying it was needed to allow the Department to assess the problem. Woodall says he has full trust in Secretary Rollins, saying she will hold Mexico accountable for its role in eradicating New World Screwworm.
Nearly everyone in the South Texas ag community appears extremely worried about the potential of a New World screwworm epidemic, according to a local veterinarian. RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports.
January 23, 2026 11:56 AM
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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.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
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Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
January 16, 2026 01:28 PM
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January 16, 2026 09:57 AM
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Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.
January 07, 2026 12:57 PM
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New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
January 06, 2026 12:09 PM
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