After the recent discovery of New World Screwworm in Texas last week, several agriculture leaders have released statements sharing how they are taking action to combat this livestock industry threat.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson said “We have been working in close coordination with federal, state and industry partners to prepare for the New world screwworm’s arrival in the U.S. In Florida, we have proactively taken emergency actions to protect Florida from this threat, and we will continue to monitor and respond as needed. We are going to need a unified front from the government, our agriculture community, and the public to respond to this threat.”
In a post on X, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture, Tyler Harper said, “Our team is actively working alongside industry partners and state and federal agencies as we monitor the confirmed New World Screwworm (NWS) detection in South Texas. Protecting Georgia’s livestock industry and agricultural economy remains a top priority. We are closely tracking developments, maintaining open communication with our partners, and standing ready to take any necessary actions to safeguard our state.”
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s CEO, Colin Woodall also released a statement saying, “NCBA and our state partner organizations have been working for more than a year to combat the incursion of the New World Screwworm, and we are doing everything possible to protect the interests of American cattle producers.”
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.