Texas Announces New Plan to Combat New World Screwworm

Gov. Abbott, USDA Sec. Rollins unveil strategy to address livestock pest threat

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott, joined by U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, announced a significant new plan on Monday to combat the spread of the New World Screwworm, a dangerous livestock pest that has threatened cattle populations along the Texas-Mexico border.

Why it matters

The New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly that can infect livestock, causing serious harm and even death to cattle, horses, and other animals. Its presence on the Texas-Mexico border has raised concerns about the potential for the pest to spread further into the United States, prompting state and federal officials to take action.

The details

Details of the new plan were not immediately disclosed, but it is expected to involve increased monitoring, prevention, and eradication efforts coordinated between state and federal agriculture agencies. The announcement comes after a recent outbreak of New World Screwworm infestations in southern Texas and northern Mexico, which led to the temporary suspension of cattle imports to prevent the pest from crossing the border.

  • The press conference announcing the new plan was held on Monday, February 9, 2026.

The players

Greg Abbott

The Governor of Texas, who is leading the state's efforts to combat the New World Screwworm threat.

Brooke Rollins

The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, who is partnering with the state of Texas on the new plan to address the New World Screwworm.

USDA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which is collaborating with the state of Texas on the new strategy to combat the New World Screwworm.

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What they’re saying

“We must take decisive action to protect our livestock and agricultural industry from the threat of the New World Screwworm. This new plan will strengthen our defenses and ensure the continued health and prosperity of Texas' vital cattle sector.”

— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas (kxxv.com)

What’s next

The details of the new plan to combat the New World Screwworm are expected to be released in the coming weeks, outlining the specific strategies and initiatives that will be implemented by state and federal agencies.

The takeaway

The announcement of this new plan highlights the ongoing efforts by Texas and the USDA to proactively address the threat posed by the New World Screwworm, a pest that could have significant economic and agricultural impacts if left unchecked along the state's border with Mexico.