Free Training Now Available To Help Central Texans Identify Screwworm Infestations In Cattle And Pets

To fight an enemy, you need to know who or what you are fighting. The State of Texas wants Texans to know as much as possible about the New World Screwworm.

Texas Launches Free Certification Program to Safeguard $15 Billion Cattle Industry

To combat a mounting agricultural threat, Governor Abbott announced a new, no-cost digital training program designed to rapidly increase the state's force of certified New World screwworm inspectors. According to KENS5, the emergency push is fueled by the sudden re-emergence of the New World screwworm, a highly destructive parasite that puts the state’s $15 billion cattle market at severe risk.

What the Course Entails

The educational platform features instructional videos, lesson guides, and diagnostic quizzes focused on proper identification, official reporting protocols, and livestock treatment methods. Individuals who successfully pass the comprehensive final examination will receive official state certification, authorizing them to inspect herds and issue the mandatory transit permits farmers need to move their stock.

The Minds Behind the Course

The newly unveiled online curriculum was co-developed through a joint effort by Texas A&M AgriLife, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Dual Benefit

The initiative arrives at a critical point for the Texas livestock sector, providing a dual benefit: it opens new revenue opportunities for local animal health specialists while offering vital economic protection for ranchers struggling to secure their livelihoods. If the outbreak spreads unchecked, the resulting supply disruptions could drive up the cost of beef for everyday consumers even more.

Cases Increasing

As of today, state veterinarians have confirmed 10 active cases of New World screwworm in Texas. All reported infections are clustered in the rural ranching territories surrounding San Antonio, specifically within Zavala, La Salle, and Gillespie counties.

Navigating Quarantine Protocols

To prevent the parasite from hitchhiking across state lines, agricultural officials have implemented strict movement controls. Livestock owners operating inside designated infestation zones are now legally required to obtain an official transit certificate before moving any animals out of the restricted areas.

Initial Program Rollout

The initial rollout of the certification program is strictly limited to local, county, and state veterinarians alongside authorized agricultural officials. However, state leaders encourage the public, including independent ranchers and students, to access the course materials for general educational purposes to help increase community awareness across Central and South Texas.