“Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association takes the threat of New World screwworm seriously. We commend Secretary Rollins and USDA for making a difficult but necessary decision to close the southern border. While this action presents short-term challenges for cattle raisers, it is a critical step to secure the long-term health of the U.S. cattle herd.

Cooperation from the Mexican government is essential, and this move sends a clear signal about the urgency of the situation. Our association has consistently supported a border closure if warranted, and while we continue to work toward a domestic sterile fly production facility, we are left to rely more heavily on ground-based containment efforts.”