USDA to invest $25 million in Arizona facility to combat New World screwworm

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture will invest $25 million to establish a new sterile fly dispersal facility in Arizona. The facility aims to combat the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that affects livestock and wildlife.

Rollins made the announcement during a visit to the Grand Canyon State, where she was joined by Arizona GOP Reps. Andy Biggs, Juan Ciscomani, and Eli Crane. The officials highlighted the importance of the project in protecting agriculture and natural resources in the region.

The new facility will support efforts to release sterilized male flies to reduce screwworm populations naturally. The initiative is part of broader efforts to prevent the spread of the pest and safeguard local agriculture.

The funding aims to accelerate the development and operational readiness of the facility, which is expected to have a significant impact on pest control in Arizona and surrounding states.

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