Photo courtesy of Deer Valley Farm
USDA plans to reopen another border crossing for Mexican cattle imports despite continuing concerns about New World screwworm. USDA says the Columbus, New Mexico, port of entry will resume cattle imports October 26, becoming the third crossing reopened under the department’s phased livestock trade restoration plan.
The announcement follows earlier reopenings at Douglas, Arizona, in August and Santa Teresa, New Mexico, in September.
New World screwworm remains a significant threat to livestock because its larvae feed on living tissue, potentially causing serious injuries and death. Recent detections in southwestern New Mexico and the first U.S. wildlife detection, found in an elk in Pecos County, Texas, have heightened concerns about the parasite’s spread. USDA says enhanced inspections and animal health safeguards are intended to reduce the risk associated with resumed livestock shipments.
The department also plans to reopen the Nogales, Arizona, crossing November 30, provided animal health conditions and inspection arrangements support safe trade.
NAFB news service
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