The US Department of Agriculture is preparing a billion-dollar response to combat the screwworm parasite, which has been detected in Texas and New Mexico. The parasite, which can devastate the cattle industry, had been eradicated in the US for 60 years.

Local Impact

In Texas, seven cases of the screwworm have been detected, prompting a 12-mile quarantine zone around each affected area. The USDA is releasing sterile flies to mate with female screwworms, which will help control the population.

US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has blamed the Biden administration for the parasite’s return, citing a lack of action to prevent its spread. However, Democratic leaders argue that cuts to the USDA under the Trump administration are to blame.

National Efforts

The USDA plans to spend over $1 billion to combat the screwworm, with $750 million allocated for building and operating a plant to produce sterile flies. The goal is to protect the US cattle industry and prevent a significant increase in beef prices.

Experts warn that climate change is contributing to the spread of the screwworm, which thrives in hot and humid weather. The parasite has already disrupted the Mexican beef industry, and the US has closed its southern ports to Mexican livestock.

Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.