Lampasas, TX - Following reports from the USDA that the New World Screwworm has been found in South Texas, Agricultural Commissioner candidate Clayton Tucker issued the following statement:

“This is a serious threat to Texas agriculture, livestock, wildlife, and even household pets.

We’ve beaten the New World Screwworm before, and we’ll beat them again.

But let’s be honest: this work should have started years ago.

Right now, our focus must be on rapid detection, sensible containment, and using every proven tool available to stop an outbreak before it spreads further.

Ranchers, veterinarians, pet owners, and wildlife officials all have a role to play. If you see suspicious wounds or signs of infestation, report them immediately.

Once this threat is under control, we need a long-term preparedness plan so we’re never caught flat-footed again. Agriculture is too important to our economy, our food supply, and our way of life to do otherwise.”

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