USDA Due to Reopen Douglas, Arizona Port to Mexican Cattle Amid Screwworm Safeguards

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will reopen the Douglas, Arizona, Port of Entry to livestock imports from Mexico on Aug. 24, marking the first step in a phased reopening of cross-border cattle trade following more than a year of restrictions related to the New World screwworm.

The reopening comes after USDA officials determined that neighboring Sonora, Mexico, has maintained sufficient animal health controls and remains a safe distance from the nearest known New World screwworm detection, which was reported approximately 325 miles away on July 22.

According to USDA, every animal entering the United States through the reopened port will undergo rigorous federal inspection and treatment before being permitted entry.

Rollins also announced that USDA is investing $25 million toward the construction of a new sterile fly dispersal facility in Arizona, a key component in the nation's long-term strategy to combat the New World screwworm. The sterile insect technique has been one of the most effective tools used to suppress and eliminate screwworm populations by releasing sterile male flies that prevent the pest from reproducing.

Calling Douglas "the best choice livestock port on the southern border," Rollins emphasized that reopening livestock trade will remain both strategic and responsive to changing animal health conditions.

"Protecting American livestock will always come first," she said.

The announcement was welcomed by many cattle producers and industry organizations that have been awaiting the resumption of Mexican cattle imports. However, USDA officials stressed that reopening efforts will continue cautiously, with future ports reopening only if surveillance data and animal health conditions remain favorable.

Alongside the announcement, USDA reminded producers that the New World screwworm is a parasite-not a virus or disease that spreads from animal to animal. Infestations occur when an adult female screwworm fly lays eggs in an open wound or natural body opening of a live animal. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on living tissue, making early detection and treatment critical.

Officials also emphasized that the parasite does not spread through beef, dairy products or poultry, nor is it transmitted directly between animals or humans.

USDA is encouraging ranchers, veterinarians, and livestock owners to remain vigilant and immediately report unusual wounds or maggot infestations in live animals. Early reporting remains one of the most important tools in preventing the spread of the parasite and protecting livestock, wildlife, and rural communities.

The reopening of the Douglas Port represents a significant milestone in restoring cross-border livestock commerce while maintaining strict biosecurity measures. USDA officials said they will continue monitoring the New World screwworm situation closely and adjust reopening plans as needed to safeguard the nation's livestock industry.