In a way, we can compare the New World screwworm (NWS) outbreak to a hurricane. We've known for a while that the likelihood was pretty high that we would have to deal with it. We still aren't certain exactly how it will impact our operations, but it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to prepare in some ways.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) officials confirmed Wednesday night the arrival of New World screwworm in a 3-week-old calf in Zavala County of southern Texas, making it the first confirmed case to arrive across the Mexico border.

Are you prepared for New World screwworm (NWS)? Originally eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, NWS (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae (myiasis) presents a challenge many cattle producers have never experienced firsthand.

Don’t miss this episode as NCBA CEO Colin Woodall chats with Managing Editor David Cooper on multiple key issues the industry is now facing, including high beef demand, when the border can open to Mexican cattle, and U.S. preparation for the possible arrival of New World screwworm.

Robby Kirkland knows cattle, and he knows people. And what he knows most about both people and cattle is that no two are exactly the same.