General · Texas behavioral health news
USDA has new partners in the fight against screwworm — drones, dogs and fungi
Texas Tribune – Health · By Berenice Garcia · June 16, 2026
In plain language
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is launching new high-tech efforts to stop the spread of screwworms in Texas and across the country. These pests are dangerous because they feed on the flesh of living mammals, including livestock and wildlife. Federal officials are now working with researchers to use AI-controlled drones, scent-detecting dogs, and even special fungi to track and control the flies. Several Texas universities have received funding to help develop these innovative tools to protect animals and the food supply.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- The USDA is partnering with Homeland Security to use AI drones for monitoring wildlife for screwworm infestations.
- Federal officials awarded $105 million to forty research projects aimed at eradicating the flesh-eating pest.
- Five Texas universities are receiving grants to develop new treatments, traps, and detection methods.
- Scientists are researching the use of insect-killing fungi and specially trained dogs to locate the flies.
- While screwworms have been found in Texas livestock, they have not yet been detected in U.S. wildlife.
- Releasing sterile male flies remains the most effective known method for stopping screwworm reproduction.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins at a press conference about the New World Screwworm in Kerrville on June 8, 2026. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.texastribune.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/20260608-Kerrville-Screwworm-Presser-BB-25-.jpg?fit=780%2C586&ssl=1" /> The USDA awarded a combined $105 million to 40 different projects aimed at stopping the spread of New World Screwworm. The post USDA has new partners in the fight against screwworm — drones, dogs and fungi appeared first on The Texas Tribune.
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