MISSION, Texas – The U.S. departments of Agriculture and Homeland Security have signed an agreement to coordinate detection, research and emergency response efforts aimed at preventing New World screwworm from becoming established in the United States.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the memorandum of understanding during an Aug. 10 visit to Moore Air Base. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott represented the Department of Homeland Security.
The framework calls for expanded threat detection, information sharing, readiness planning and scientific research. The agencies also plan to examine the use of artificial intelligence and unmanned aircraft for screening, detection and interdiction.
Other areas of cooperation include biosurveillance, joint training and research through DHS Centers of Excellence. Officials said closer coordination is intended to give agriculture and border-security personnel a faster picture of emerging threats.
New World screwworm larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals and can cause severe or fatal injuries to livestock and wildlife. Preventing its spread is a major concern for ranchers and animal-health officials in South Texas.
Federal officials said the agreement will complement existing surveillance and eradication programs as agencies monitor the pest’s movement northward through Mexico.
