The American Livestock Markets and Dealers Association (ALMDA) have released a statement applauding the release of New World screwworm infested zones in Texas and New Mexico. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service approved the release of New World screwworm zones after movement restrictions were previously placed on zones deemed infested. Dale Sandlin, American Livestock Markets Dealers Association Chief Executive Officer, released a statement saying, quote, the release of these zones provides relief for livestock markets and dealers accepting livestock from these areas and returns commerce in these areas back to normal.
The American Livestock Markets and Dealers Association and Livestock Marketing Association of Texas appreciates the work of the Texas Animal Health Commission and USDA’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service for their efforts in the response to this invasive pest. We’re hopeful that the remaining zones can be released very soon, but since the detection, our members have continued to serve their customers while contributing to the success of response activities. This order recognizes the dedicated response activity in these areas.
The movement restriction releases are a positive sign in the ongoing New World screwworm response.
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.