economy
Cattle imports on southern border reopened after screwworm halt
The Department of Agriculture on Friday announced it was opening several southern ports back up for livestock imports, lifting a ban it had placed on entry points bordering Mexico designed to keep the New World Screwworm at bay.
TL;DR
- Southern ports bordering Mexico are reopening for livestock imports.
- A ban was in place to prevent the spread of the New World Screwworm, which threatens the ranching industry.
- Officials believe they have the screwworm situation under control with nine confirmed cases in the U.S.
- Ports in Douglas, Arizona; Santa Teresa, New Mexico; and Columbus, New Mexico, will reopen in a phased manner.
- The reopening is dependent on Mexico's adherence to a joint action plan to combat the pest.
- All imported animals will undergo USDA inspection to ensure they are free of the screwworm.
- The import ban had caused a contraction in the U.S. beef industry and contributed to record-high beef prices.
- New prevention and treatment drugs are available to help manage the screwworm.