‘We do have to deal with it’: Nebraska farmers respond to reports of new world screwworm

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) —Right now, a new potential threat has reemerged for the cattle industry.

The USDA reported the new world screwworm, a parasitic fly, was detected on US soil for the first time in 60 years. It typically feeds on livestock.

It was found in South Texas on Wednesday.

But now, this raises concerns for cattle ranchers and farmers, especially in Nebraska.

Nebraska is one of the top meat and cattle-producing states in the country. John Hansen, the president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, says they knew this was coming, and it could have huge impacts.

“Any time there’s a threat to our beef industry, it’s going to not only have a huge economic impact, but also a downstream impact,” said Hansen.

Organizations across the state are all weighing in. The Nebraska Farm Bureau states it is not time to panic.

“Now that the New World Screwworm (NWS) has been found on U.S. soil for the first time in 60 years, it is time for diligence, not fear.”

The Nebraska Cattlemen are also sounding off, advising ranchers to stay calm.

“Although the only confirmed case in the U.S. at this time is in Texas, Nebraska producers should remain vigilant and report any cases immediately. We have eradicated this parasite before and we will again.”

Right now, Hansen also says this could cause another problem for ranchers. The United States is seeing the lowest cattle herd in 75 years. But, he’s confident this parasite can be defeated again.

“This provides an additional challenge as we’re trying to rebuild the herd,” Hansen said. “But now that it’s here, we do have to deal with it. Let’s be about it, and be doing what we need to do at the right time.”