USDA invests $25 million to boost screwworm protection efforts
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is preparing to reopen the Douglas Port of Entry in Arizona for livestock trade on August 24. The decision follows extensive planning and the introduction of strict inspection measures designed to protect American livestock from the New World screwworm (NWS), a harmful pest that can affect animals.
During a visit to the Douglas livestock inspection facilities, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced a $25 million investment to support the development of a new sterile fly dispersal facility in Arizona. The project is part of USDA’s long-term strategy to control and eventually eliminate the threat of New World screwworm in North America.
Under USDA’s reopening plan, every animal entering through the Douglas port will undergo multiple veterinary inspections. USDA veterinarians will examine animals before they enter the United States. Any animal that does not meet import requirements will be denied entry. If New World screwworm is detected, livestock imports through the facility will immediately stop.
The planned sterile fly dispersal facility will strengthen USDA’s response capabilities along the Southwest border. The new site will support ongoing sterile fly programs already operating in Texas, Mexico, and Panama. USDA officials are working with Arizona leaders to determine the exact location and operating plans for the facility.
“Protecting American agriculture begins with protecting our borders and ensuring we have the strongest animal health safeguards anywhere in the world. The Douglas Port of Entry will reopen only because USDA has implemented one of the most rigorous livestock inspection protocols in history, giving us confidence we can safely resume this critical trade while ensuring cattle crossing the border are free from New World screwworm,” said Secretary Rollins.
She continued, “At the same time, today’s announcement marks another major investment in our long-term strategy to push this pest back into Mexico and ultimately eradicate it from North America. Together with our partners in Arizona, we’re strengthening the infrastructure needed to protect American ranchers for generations to come.”
Monitoring efforts have also increased in the region. Over the past year, USDA and Arizona officials collected and tested nearly 1,000 flies near Douglas. Experts confirmed that none of the samples contained New World screwworm. Agencies have also carried out training exercises, preparedness planning, and outreach programs to ensure a rapid response if the pest is detected.
“Proud to join Secretary Rollins for today’s announcement of the reopening of the Douglas Port of Entry alongside this critical investment in Arizona. Local agriculture leaders and I have been fighting to deliver this sterile fly dispersal facility because Arizona’s livestock industry cannot afford to wait on the New World screwworm threat. This $25 million investment is the direct result of that work, and I’m grateful to Secretary Rollins for listening to Arizona’s producers and delivering on it,” said Representative Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06).
He added, “Her responsiveness and willingness to act swiftly on commonsense solutions has made a real difference. This is Secretary Rollins’ second visit to Arizona in just a few months, reflecting her commitment to hearing directly from those on the ground and delivering real results for our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.”
Douglas was selected as the first port to reopen because Sonora, Mexico, maintains strong animal health programs and remains a low-risk area for New World screwworm. USDA stated that future reopening decisions for livestock ports in New Mexico will depend on continued disease monitoring and Mexico’s ongoing cooperation with control efforts.
The USDA said protecting the American livestock industry remains its top priority while allowing safe and responsible livestock trade.
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