Advanced facility strengthens defense against livestock pests
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service has opened the new Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory. This modern facility aims to support the cattle industry by developing better tools to manage invasive pests such as flies and ticks.
"The Trump Administration has been committed to eradicating pests that could harm our American livestock since the President has been sworn in. The brand new Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory will allow us to research and find new active measures to keep current and future threats away from our borders," said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins.
"We have taken extraordinary actions to keep New World Screwworm out of the United States and this lab will help us accelerate our offensive efforts to drive this pest further away from our borders," said Rollins.
"For the last 250 years, our nation has relied on research leading to science-based innovation as a means to overcome some of America's greatest agricultural challenges, including the exclusion of New World Screwworm from the United States with novel Sterile Insect Techniques," said USDA Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics Dr. Scott Hutchins.
"The Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory -- named after ARS pioneers that every entomologist and entomology student knows of through their breakthrough work -- will build on their legacy by protecting livestock health, ensuring that America's ranches remain productive, safe, and profitable for generations to come," said Hutchins.
The laboratory covers 52,000 square feet and includes advanced research spaces, cattle facilities, and a genomics center. These features help scientists study insect behavior, improve pest control techniques, and identify weak points in harmful species. The lab will also support research on new insecticides, better pesticide delivery systems, and methods to reduce pest resistance.
Officials highlighted the importance of protecting livestock from threats like the New World Screwworm. Past efforts using the Sterile Insect Technique helped eliminate this pest from the United States in the 1970s. The new lab will continue such work using modern tools and approaches.
The facility also supports two research units focused on livestock pests and genetics. Their work helps improve animal health, supports farm productivity, and protects food supply.
This new laboratory builds on more than 80 years of research in Kerrville, Texas. It is named after two scientists, Edward F. Knipling and Raymond C. Bushland, who developed key pest control methods still used today.
"This new laboratory will equip our researchers with advanced tools to combat the most destructive invasive insects already impacting the United States, as well as those posing future threats at our borders," said ARS Administrator Joon Park. "The important ARS research conducted here in Kerrville will continue to play a vital role in protecting and strengthening the future of the U.S. cattle industry."
With its advanced capabilities, the research center is expected to strengthen pest control efforts and support a safe and productive future for the U.S. cattle industry.
Photo Credit: texas-screwworm