ARLINGTON, Va. — Following Friday’s rollout of USDA’s five-pronged plan to combat New World screwworm, NASDA CEO Ted McKinney issued a statement of support for USDA’s new actions.
“NASDA is grateful for USDA’s investment in defending the U.S. against an outbreak of new world screwworm and for recognizing states as critical partners in helping prevent, mitigate and eradicate foreign animal diseases,” McKinney said. “NASDA is always committed to working with intergovernmental agencies and industry stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach to animal health initiatives.”
Combating the spread of diseases, protecting animal health and welfare and guarding against the spread of invasive species are key responsibilities of state departments of agriculture. NASDA members are actively engaged in these issues at the state, federal and international level to ensure the safety and profitability of U.S. agriculture.
NASDA is also enormously pleased to see the announcement of plans for a new domestic sterile insect production facility for screwworm. “This step to intensify efforts to eradicate New World screwworm before it crosses the U.S. border is needed to protect our livestock and support U.S. farmers and ranchers,” McKinney said. “NASDA encourages USDA to act swiftly to establish the facility to ensure we are able adequately protect U.S. livestock.”
