As concerns continue to grow over the potential spread of New World screwworm in the southern United States, the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) is launching a weekly informational call series designed to keep ranchers, livestock producers and landowners informed.
The New World Screwworm Informational Call will be held every Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. through July, providing TSCRA members with direct access to association leadership and staff for the latest updates, guidance and answers to questions regarding New World screwworm and its potential impact on Texas agriculture.
According to TSCRA, the weekly calls are intended to help members stay informed, gain clarity and receive reliable information as state and federal officials continue monitoring the threat posed by the parasitic pest.
What Is the New World Screwworm?
The New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Infestations can affect cattle, horses, sheep, goats, wildlife, pets and, in rare cases, humans.
The pest was eradicated from the United States decades ago through an extensive sterile fly release program, but recent detections in parts of Central America and Mexico have renewed concerns among livestock producers and animal health officials. Agriculture leaders across Texas continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance, early detection and reporting of suspected cases.
Weekly Calls Offer Direct Access to Experts
TSCRA officials say the weekly membership update calls will provide participants with current information on New World screwworm developments, prevention efforts and response strategies. The calls are designed specifically for TSCRA members and will offer an opportunity to ask questions directly to association representatives and subject matter experts.
Members who plan to participate by telephone are encouraged to submit questions ahead of time. Those joining through the online platform will be able to ask questions live using the chat feature during the call.
How to Register
TSCRA members interested in participating can register by emailing [email protected]. Once registered, participants will receive information needed to join the calls, including a virtual meeting link or dial-in number. Registration is only required once, and members will receive access to all future calls in the series.
Why It Matters
Texas has one of the largest cattle industries in the nation, and livestock producers remain on alert as state and federal agencies work to prevent the re-establishment of New World screwworm populations in North America.
Industry organizations, veterinarians and animal health officials continue encouraging producers to monitor livestock closely, inspect wounds regularly and report unusual infestations or animal health concerns immediately.
The weekly TSCRA calls are intended to provide producers with timely information and a direct line to experts as Texas agriculture remains focused on protecting livestock, wildlife and the state’s agricultural economy from the threat of New World screwworm.
New World Screwworm Informational Calls
- Who: Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association members
- When: Thursdays, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., through July
- Registration: [email protected]
- Format: Virtual meeting or telephone dial-in
- Purpose: Updates, education and question-and-answer sessions regarding New World screwworm in Texas
