By Julie Tomascik
Editor

Federal action to build a sterile insect production facility in Texas is a significant step forward, but Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) urged state lawmakers to maintain a strong role in preventing and managing the threat of the New World screwworm.

TFB testified Tuesday, Aug. 19, before the Texas House Agriculture & Livestock Committee, stressing the continued need for agency partnership and legislative leadership.

“While the federal commitment is significant, it does not relieve the state of its responsibilities,” Charlie Leal, TFB state legislative director, said. “The facility is not a standalone solution. It will take a coordinated response from the state to prevent and manage any potential outbreak of the New World screwworm.”

Earlier this year, Gov. Greg Abbott established the Texas New World Screwworm Response Team, in which TFB is involved. Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department are charged with addressing the potential re-emergence of the pest in Texas.

“We appreciate their willingness to participate in meetings and open communication with livestock and wildlife groups,” Leal said. “These agencies are working closely with Texas A&M AgriLife to ensure science-based strategies are guiding the state’s response. We’re in full support of the state ensuring that these agencies are equipped with the necessary funding, staffing and operational flexibility that they will need in responding to a threat like the New World screwworm.”

TFB also noted the role of the Screwworm Coalition of Texas, of which the organization is a member. The coalition brings industry-wide support and input to the state’s response team and agencies involved in combatting the pest.

The screwworm, a parasitic fly that infests warm-blooded animals, was eradicated from the U.S. in the 1960s through the sterile insect technique. Outbreaks in Central and South America, and the current outbreak in Mexico, highlight the importance of vigilance at the Texas border.

“Texas played a leading role in eradicating the screwworm decades ago,” Leal said. “We must be just as committed today. A strong, coordinated state response is not optional. It is necessary to protect our livestock, wildlife and rural communities.”

Lawmakers also heard from state agencies, including the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas A&M AgriLife and Texas Department of Agriculture, during the hearing.

Other groups providing testimony included Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers, Texas Deer Association, Texas Grain and Feed Association, Texas Wildlife Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Association and Livestock Marketing Association of Texas.

For more information about the New World screwworm, visit screwwormtx.org.