DOUGLAS, Ariz. (RFD News) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is considering a new sterile fly dispersal facility in Arizona as it continues efforts to combat New World screwworm and begins a phased plan to reopen the border to feeder cattle imports.
The department toured a potential site this week as screwworm restrictions continue to reshape cattle movement and beef trade with Mexico.
USDA expects Mexican cattle exports to fall 80 percent this year to about 45,000 head. Restrictions have significantly slowed cattle movement into the U.S., leaving more animals to move through Mexican feedlots and slaughter plants.
Mexico’s beef production is estimated to increase 11 percent, while beef exports are expected to climb 23 percent to about 400,000 metric tons.
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