U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) is spearheading a New World Screwworm Working Group with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to eradicate the species of parasitic fly that can cause myiasis and feeds on live tissue.
“It’s all hands-on-deck to stop the spread of the screwworm,” Rep. Gonzales said during the group’s first meeting on Jan. 26. “Our working group will continue leading the way to get the job done.”
The congressman hosted the meeting and was joined by USDA Under Secretary of Marketing and Regulatory Programs Dudley Hoskins, and APHIS Deputy Director Dr. Christopher Needham.
A major topic discussed among the group was the announcement of the New World Screwworm Grand Challenge, in which APHIS has made up to $100 million available to support projects that enhance sterile New World screwworm (NWS) fly production, strengthen preparedness and response strategies, and safeguard U.S. agriculture, animal health, and trade.
“Containing the New World screwworm parasite remains a national emergency that demands swift, coordinated action,” said Rep. Gonzales. “With USDA leadership at the table today, we are taking meaningful steps to strengthen our defenses.”
USDA officials also reported that current sterile fly production, which is a key driver in eliminating the NWS, stands at 100 million flies per week, and plans are under way to scale up production to 300 million.
The new sterile fly dispersal center at Moore Air Base in South Texas is expected to become operational in the near future, according to Rep. Gonzales’ staff.
“The launch of the New World Screwworm Grand Challenge exemplifies what this group has been working on from day one — partnering with subject matter experts to combat the deadly NWS,” said Rep. Gonzales. “I appreciate the USDA joining our group this morning to share the new investments available to protect our food supply, animal health, and the agriculture industry.”
During the meeting, the congressman also was joined by staff representing members of the Texas legislature, as well as officials from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Texas Farm Bureau, the Texas Wildlife Association, the American Livestock Markets and Dealers Association, the Texas A&M Department of Entomology, and ranchers from Texas’ 23rd Congressional District.