On June 13, Governor Greg Abbott announced the launch of a free online course to expand the number of certified New World screwworm (NWS) inspectors across Texas.

 A free NWS inspector training is now available through the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service platform, AgriLife Learn. This course, created by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Education Development and Engagement unit on its AgriLife Learn platform, will allow more Texans to inspect their animals and certify documentation required to safely move them, which is critical to ensuring cattle and livestock commerce continues uninterrupted.

A first-of-its-kind program, New World Screwworm Preparedness and Response Education, was developed by AgriLife Extension in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

“The State of Texas will use every tool to protect our cattle industry and wildlife while we eradicate this pest,” Abbott said. “Texas A&M AgriLife and TAHC moved quickly to launch this training. Now more people, including private industry, will be able to inspect and certify animals for movement. Through this program, Texas will protect our ranchers, ensure the security of our food supply and keep business strong.”

“Stopping the spread of NWS will not be possible without our inspectors knowing what to look for, that’s why this announcement is critical to keep our cattle industry on track,” said Brooke Rollins, USDA Secretary. “We encourage everyone who can to help us identify and report suspected cases to help eradicate this pest as fast as possible. Grateful for Governor Abbott, TAHC, TPWD and AgriLife Extension for being amazing partners in this fight.”

Four-Hour Online Course Open to All

The course is an online, modular program delivered through the AgriLife Learn platform. It includes narrated modules, demonstration videos, and knowledge checks covering NWS biology and life cycle, surveillance and reporting, species-specific inspection and treatment protocols, roles of state and federal agencies, and movement permitting requirements.

Those meeting TAHC eligibility standards who pass the final exam may apply to become a TAHC certified NWS inspector, authorized to issue official NWS Treatment/Movement Certificates for lawful movement of livestock out of infested zones.

Phase 1 immediately opens eligibility to the following groups, in addition to existing authorized personnel, including thousands of Texas veterinarians:

Livestock owners, managers, veterinarians, government personnel and allied industry professionals are encouraged to enroll. To access this free online course, register an account, add the course to your cart and check out.

The course is also available to any Texan for educational purposes.

Dan Hale, PhD, AgriLife Extension associate director for agriculture and natural resources, Bryan-College Station, said AgriLife Extension has been educating Texans for more than 100 years with science-based solutions, helping improve their lives and livelihoods.

”While the training is designed to help TAHC increase the number of inspectors if the screwworm cases exceed their personnel’s capability, the educational training program can be viewed and taken by anyone. The general public is welcome to take it to help understand best management practices when surveying animals on their own property and to help take good care of their animals.”

Additional New World screwworm facts and information can be found on the AgriLife Extension New World screwworm web hub.

NWS information

Important facts about NWS:

  • Caused by the larvae of a parasitic fly that lay eggs in open wounds. The larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals.
  • Not a contagious disease. It does not spread directly from animal to animal.
  • Not a food safety issue. Screwworms do not infest meat or other food products. The food supply remains safe.

Report suspected cases immediately to:

  • Livestock or pets: Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242.
  • Wildlife: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at 512-389-4505
  • More information can be found at https://screwworm.gov.