Dairy Producers Call for Science-Based Measures and Adequate Resources
Industry says food safety remains unaffected as livestock sector prepares for response
ARLINGTON, Va. — The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) is calling for close coordination between livestock producers and government agencies after the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the return of the New World screwworm to the United States, marking the pest’s reappearance decades after it was eradicated from the country.
The dairy industry organization said producers have spent more than a year preparing for the possibility of the parasite’s return through collaboration with federal agencies and broader agricultural stakeholders. Industry leaders are now emphasizing the importance of science-based regulatory decisions and sufficient government support to limit economic disruption and protect livestock operations.
In a statement issued Thursday, NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud said the development represents a significant challenge for the livestock sector, though he stressed that there is no risk to the food supply.
“The return of New World screwworm to the United States decades after its initial eradication is a disappointing milestone, but it’s also one for which dairy producers have been preparing for more than a year, in collaboration with USDA and across agriculture,” Doud said.
“It’s important to remember that this development has no effect on food safety, and that measures to combat both the screwworm and its spread are in place and time-tested. We appreciate the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s proactive efforts to prepare for this moment, and we stand ready to work with the department to address any ongoing challenges.”
The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, posing a serious threat to livestock health. The pest was eradicated from the United States decades ago through coordinated eradication programs involving surveillance, animal health controls, and sterile insect release techniques.
The confirmation of its return has raised concerns among livestock producers about animal welfare, operational disruptions, and potential trade and transportation restrictions affecting the agricultural sector.
Producers pledge cooperation with federal and state agencies
NMPF said dairy farmers and livestock producers are prepared to work closely with federal, state, and local authorities to contain the threat and minimize its impact on farms and ranches.
“Now that USDA has confirmed that screwworm is here, dairy farmers and all livestock producers pledge close collaboration with USDA, state and local officials, and producer organizations to mitigate any harmful effects and educate farmers on how to protect their herds,” Doud said.
“We have been creating resources to guide farmers in their responses, and we will keep our members well informed of any important screwworm developments.”
The organization indicated that industry outreach and education efforts are already underway to ensure producers understand detection protocols, prevention strategies, and response procedures.
Agricultural groups have also been monitoring developments in regions where screwworm cases have been reported, with producers seeking guidance on herd protection measures and transportation protocols for animals.
Industry warns against economically damaging restrictions
Beyond animal health concerns, NMPF cautioned policymakers against implementing regulatory measures that could unnecessarily disrupt livestock movement or agricultural commerce.
The organization urged governments and regulators to rely on scientific evidence when considering quarantine zones, transportation restrictions, or other policy responses tied to the outbreak.
“We also urge officials to follow scientific guidance in any decisions affecting animal movements and regulatory responses to avoid causing economic harm that could be greater than the screwworm itself,” Doud said.
“We also ask that adequate resources be provided to combat this problem, which causes suffering in animals and creates risk for producers.”
Industry observers say livestock transportation and cross-border trade policies could become a key area of focus if additional cases are detected. Producers are expected to seek clarity from regulators on movement requirements and biosecurity expectations in the coming weeks.
The return of the New World screwworm is likely to intensify discussions within the agriculture sector about preparedness, pest monitoring systems, and long-term containment strategies. While federal and state authorities move forward with response measures, producer organizations are emphasizing the need for coordinated action that balances animal health protection with economic stability for farmers and ranchers.