USDA Sets Quarterly Reviews for New World Screwworm Response

When it comes to New World Screwworm and the response here in the United States, USDA has just announced that they are not content with a set-it-and-forget-it strategy.

The agency says it will now review its response every quarter, giving livestock producers and other stakeholders a chance to weigh in as conditions change.

That plan, officially called the New World Screwworm Response Playbook, lays out how federal, state, Tribal and local responders work together. It covers surveillance and control measures, managing infested animals and preventing screwworm from becoming established in new areas.

USDA says it wants continued input from producers, veterinarians, livestock groups, wildlife experts and other partners.

The first virtual stakeholder meeting is September 9. Producers interested in providing feedback are encouraged to work through their agricultural associations, although comments can also be submitted directly to USDA.

APHIS says it will review that feedback and update the playbook and related guidance as needed.

You can find full details on the plan at