The USDA’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service has released the updated New World Screwworm Response Playbook in the event that the pest is detected in the United States. According to APHIS, “The updated Playbook outlines critical science-based strategies for Federal, state, tribal, and local responders, including how to: Coordinate response operations; Reduce spread and prevent establishment of NWS in new areas; Manage the pest in infested animals; Implement NWS fly surveillance and control measures; Maintain continuity of business; and Support efficient information flow and situational awareness.”
USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, Dudley Hoskins said, “USDA continues to execute Secretary Rollins’ five-pronged plan to keep NWS out of the United States. While we are aggressively safeguarding American agriculture and working with Mexico to prevent further northward spread, we must also ensure that our domestic response plans are ready for immediate activation. Strong coordination with states, producers, veterinarians, sportsmen, and other partners is essential to achieving that goal.”
The process of drafting the playbook began in October 2025 and APHIS worked with state animal health officials, livestock and wildlife industry groups, federal partners veterinary organizations, tribal partners and other stakeholders to prepare the updated version. APHIS included updates to terminology; agency roles, responsibilities and authorities; animal movement requirements and wildlife management in the updated playbook. APHIS also updated four supplemental documents that were part of the guidance.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.