Screwworm Threat Proves We Can’t Afford Slow

McKinney, TX — After Governor Greg Abbott and Brooke Rollins’ press conference on the growing threat of the New World Screwworm, Republican Agriculture Commissioner candidate Nate Sheets released the following statement:
“The New World Screwworm is not just another ag issue—it’s an existential threat to our cattle industry, our rural economy, and the price of beef for Texas families,” said Sheets. “Every day of delay risks billions in losses, permanent damage to ranching operations, and devastation for small producers. Texas needs an Agriculture Commissioner who will act the moment a threat emerges—not weeks or months later after political pressure mounts.”
The New World Screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite once eradicated in the U.S., was detected in early July just 370 miles from Texas. Experts warn it could spread rapidly if not stopped, putting every livestock sector at risk and driving up grocery prices nationwide.
Today’s plan from Abbott and Rollins included five major steps:
Building a $750 million domestic sterile fly production facility in Edinburg to triple output and end reliance on Panama and Mexico for supply.
Investing $100 million in new technologies like novel traps, lures, and modular fly units to accelerate response.
Expanding border surveillance by increasing mounted patrol “tick riders” and the USDA Beagle Brigade.
Unprecedented coordination with Mexico to halt animal movement in infected zones and improve surveillance south of the border.
Cross-agency federal action with FDA, USDA, DOE, and EPA to fast-track treatments and innovations.
“I applaud Governor Abbott and Brooke Rollins for taking swift action on this critical threat and look forward to working with them as Texas’ next Agriculture Commissioner to keep our herds safe and our cattle industry strong,” Sheets said.