San Antonio Standard

Congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas has spearheaded a bipartisan effort urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enhance efforts against the New World screwworm (NWS), a pest threatening livestock, farming, and wildlife industries. Gonzales, along with 43 colleagues, including members from key House committees, is advocating for expanded eradication and containment measures.

"In November 2024, we first received reports of NWS detected in the Mexican state of Chiapas—the number of reported cases has surged from five to now at least 33 and has spread to the states of Campeche and Tabasco," Gonzales stated. "Left unchecked, an outbreak could cost livestock producers millions of dollars per year and inflict detrimental economic losses on the national economy."

The letter suggests collaboration between USDA and various stakeholders to address this threat, including establishing a sterile fly production facility in Texas or the Southwest.

Russell Boening, President of the Texas Farm Bureau, emphasized the importance of vigilance: "The New World Screwworm is a devastating pest that would cripple the United States livestock industry." He thanked Congressman Gonzales for his proactive approach.

Carl Ray Polk Jr., President of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, acknowledged Gonzales's role in raising awareness: "Congressman Gonzales has been instrumental in raising awareness and garnering support for a proactive approach in Washington, D.C."

The letter addressed to Secretary Rollins highlights that while a sterile fly production facility exists in Panama, its capacity is insufficient. An additional 100 million sterile flies per week are estimated to be necessary for effective control.

Gonzales concluded by expressing hope for cooperation with USDA to strengthen eradication efforts.