STATEMENT: Current status of cattle fever tick control program

An agreement has been reached between Texas’ cattle organizations, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the federal Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the Texas Animal Health Commission that would allow spraying of cattle to resume in the fever tick control program for a limited time.

The solution is contingent upon review and possible changes in practices between the agencies that administer the program and the Texas Department of Agriculture. It is regarded as a short-term solution while working on a long-term agreement.

Texas Farm Bureau is pleased to be part of progress made by cattle groups and state and federal agencies that led to restarting this essential control program.

This solution will allow Texas cattlemen and women to care for their livestock and prevent the spread of fever ticks until a permanent solution can be implemented.

The agreement followed a meeting of cattle organizations with Miller on Tuesday, Aug. 7.