Agriculture officials in the Upper Midwest are urging livestock producers to remain alert to the threat of New World Screwworm, a tropical pest capable of causing severe harm to cattle. While some believe the region’s northern climate provides protection, experts say warm summer conditions are enough for the pest to survive and spread.
Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association executive director Kaitlyn Root stressed the importance of staying informed, despite the pest currently being reported in Mexico.
“Stay focused on what’s going on, even though it’s in Mexico currently. That seems like it’s far away, but we know how cattle movements work. And we will be affected by this, especially if the screwworm can make it to the United States and cattle movements stop or look different.”
Screwworm larvae feed on the living tissue of livestock by burrowing into wounds and natural body openings, causing significant injury or death if not treated. Root warns the pest’s potential arrival could disrupt livestock movement and have major consequences for the region’s cattle industry.
