The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a funding initiative to support projects that strengthen New World screwworm (NWS) prevention, preparedness and response.

The New World Screwworm Grand Challenge is part of the agency’s comprehensive strategy to combat NWS and prevent its northward spread.

“This is a strategic investment in America’s farmers and ranchers and is an important action to ensure the safety and future success of our food supply, which is essential to our national security,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said. “These are the kinds of innovations that will help us stay ahead of this pest and protect our food supply and our economy, protecting the way of life of our ranchers and go towards rebuilding our cattle herd to lower consumer prices on grocery store shelves. We know we have tried-and-true tools and methods to defeat this pest, but we must constantly look for new and better methods and innovate our way to success. Together, through science, innovation and collaboration, we can ensure we’re utilizing the latest tools and technology to combat NWS in Mexico and Central America and keep it out of the United States.”

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will make up to $100 million available to support innovative projects that enhance sterile NWS fly production, strengthen preparedness and response strategies, and safeguard U.S. agriculture, animal health and trade.

Priority areas for funding include must support one or more of the following objectives:

  • Enhance sterile NWS fly production
  • Develop novel NWS traps and lures
  • Develop and increase understanding of NWS therapeutics/treatments (i.e. products that could treat, prevent, or control NWS) for animals
  • Develop other tools to bolster preparedness or response to NWS

The notice of funding opportunity, including application instructions, eligibility, and program requirements, is available on the NWS Grand Challenge webpage.

Proposals that align with and support these priorities must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET. on Feb. 23.