Texas Farm Bureau applauds USDA sterile insect facility plan

The following statement may be attributed to Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening following USDA’s announcement to advance the construction of a sterile insect facility in Texas.

“Texas Farm Bureau applauds U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for advancing the construction of a sterile insect production and distribution facility at Moore Air Base. This investment is a critical step in protecting Texas livestock, wildlife and our food supply from the devastating threat of the New World screwworm. 

“As the screwworm threat has moved north from Panama into Mexico, Texas Farm Bureau made the establishment of a domestic sterile insect facility one of our highest priorities. A robust, science-based defense, anchored by a U.S.-based facility, is essential to combatting this destructive pest.

“We’re grateful to the Congressional leaders who have championed this effort and to USDA for its commitment to proactive, long-term solutions. We look forward to continued collaboration to ensure our producers, rural communities and consumers are protected from this threat.”