Rollins explained that the Edinburg facility will produce 300 million sterile flies per week, complementing production in Panama and Mexico. "This puts America first," Rollins said. "It's a tactical move that ensures we are prepared and not just reactive."

The expansion marks a major step in the decades-long sterile insect technique, which relies on releasing sterile male flies to suppress screwworm populations. The parasite, eradicated in the U.S. in 1966, has reemerged in Mexico and is threatening Texas cattle and wildlife.

Immediate Actions Beyond the Plant

In addition to the new facility, the USDA pledged $100 million to accelerate technology development, from novel traps and lures to modular sterile fly units. Rollins called on researchers and ag tech firms to "help us outpace this pest quickly and in the most innovative way possible."

Stronger Border Surveillance

To guard against infected livestock and wildlife entering from Mexico, USDA is expanding its mounted patrol unit, the Tick Riders. Traditionally tasked with preventing cattle fever ticks, these horse-mounted officers will now serve as the frontline defense against screwworms along the border.

The agency's Beagle Brigade is also being trained to detect screwworm infections in livestock.

Cross-Border Coordination

Acknowledging the transnational nature of the threat, Rollins emphasized collaboration with Mexico. She highlighted ongoing daily communication with Julio Bertegue, Mexico's secretary of agriculture, to improve surveillance, data sharing, and rapid response.

"Because pests don't care where the border is, we are working directly with Mexico, perhaps in a way never seen before," Rollins said.

The New World Screwworm poses a severe risk to the $66 billion U.S. cattle industry and the multibillion-dollar hunting economy in Texas. Ranchers warn that an outbreak could cause billions in losses and higher beef prices, as infestations render cattle unmarketable and wildlife untreatable.

By reducing U.S. reliance on sterile fly shipments from abroad, the Texas facility is designed to provide a permanent safeguard against future outbreaks.