Central South Dakota News

U.S. Senator Mike Rounds has formally requested that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) thoroughly investigate the threat posed by the New World Screwworm (NWS) before considering reopening the U.S.-Mexico feeder cattle trade. This request was made in a letter addressed to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack.

The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) halted livestock imports from Mexico on November 24, 2024, following the detection of NWS in Chiapas, Mexico. This measure aims to prevent the spread of the parasite into U.S. markets. Although NWS was believed to have been eradicated from the United States in 1966, its reappearance could have serious implications for domestic cattle markets.

Senator Rounds emphasized caution in his letter: "To address current threats, I urge the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to proceed with real caution and to refrain from prematurely reopening the U.S.-Mexico feeder cattle trade." He further stated that before resuming this trade, "USDA must thoroughly assess and address the concerns of the entire cattle industry."

The senator highlighted that American ranchers produce high-quality beef demanded worldwide but face constant threats from foreign diseases like NWS. Despite efforts by U.S. officials and Mexico to contain NWS, detections continue to occur periodically.

Rounds urged APHIS to clearly define their decision-making process regarding trade decisions and stressed that animal health officials should protect American producers from additional uncertainties amid rising input costs and volatile markets.