Farm Bureau urges USDA to keep cattle border restrictions until pest control improves
The New World screwworm continues to raise concerns for the U.S. cattle industry as cases remain active near the southern border. In response to the growing threat, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall sent a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins urging continued science-based action to protect livestock and the agricultural economy.
The letter requests that USDA keep the southern U.S. border closed to cattle imports until Mexico shows it can effectively control the pest. Farm Bureau leaders believe this step is necessary to reduce the risk of the screwworm entering the United States and causing widespread damage to livestock and wildlife.
According to the letter, USDA has already taken several important actions to fight the pest. These efforts include completing a sterile fly distribution facility in South Texas, supporting partnerships to increase sterile fly production, and encouraging development of new traps, treatments, and tools to strengthen preparedness. Farm Bureau emphasized that science-based decisions remain critical in protecting the health and economic stability of the U.S. cattle herd.
The organization noted that the northernmost active case of New World screwworm is only about 70 miles south of the U.S. border. While USDA’s sterile fly release efforts and Mexico’s cooperation are appreciated, reports indicate Mexico is managing more than 600 active cases. Farm Bureau believes this level of activity shows the pest is not yet under control.
The letter also recognizes the economic challenges faced by those involved in cattle trade along the southern border. However, it stresses that a screwworm outbreak inside the United States would create far greater long-term consequences. Such an event could impact livestock production, wildlife populations, and farm profitability across multiple regions.
Overall, the Farm Bureau is encouraging USDA to continue taking strong preventive measures. By maintaining strict controls and following scientific guidance, industry leaders hope to reduce risks and protect both the cattle sector and the broader farm economy from this serious pest threat.
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