US Opens Texas Fly Factory
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Jun 18, 2025 · Last updated Jun 21, 2025
The establishment of new fly-breeding facilities by the United States and its collaboration with Mexico are expected to mitigate the economic risks posed by the New World screwworm to the livestock industry. This initiative aims to protect the American cattle herd, potentially leading to the resumption of cattle exports from Mexico and stabilizing market prices for related commodities.
The United States government is launching a significant initiative to combat the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite threatening American cattle. This includes opening an $8.5 million fly-breeding facility at Moore Air Force Base in United States — Texas by the end of the year, which will produce millions of sterile male screwworm flies to prevent females from laying eggs. Additionally, the United States — United States Department of Agriculture plans to invest $21 million to convert a facility near Mexico's border with Guatemala for the same purpose. This action follows the suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports from Mexico due to the parasite's appearance in southern Mexico. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Mexican Agriculture Secretary Julio Berdegué have both expressed commitment to this joint effort, with Mexico stepping up its control measures. The goal is to prevent significant economic losses for farmers and ranchers, as the parasite can infest various mammals, including livestock, pets, and occasionally humans.
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