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Ranchonomics

106. Screwworm 2026: What's Happening, What to Watch, and What to Do with Travis Krause

July 14 · 20 min · Episode 106 · 17.3 MB
0:00-20:33

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With screwworm confirmed in Texas for the first time in decades, producers across the country are asking what it means for their operations. In this special episode of the Ranchonomics Podcast, John Haskell is joined by Travis Krause to separate fact from fiction and explain what ranchers need to know about the outbreak. Travis discusses the biology of screwworm, why it poses such a serious threat to livestock and wildlife, how the sterile fly program has historically controlled its spread, and what producers in affected areas should be doing right now.

The conversation also explores how the outbreak could affect cattle movement, biosecurity, and markets across the United States. While producers in South Texas face the greatest immediate impact, John and Travis emphasize that most ranchers should focus on preparation rather than panic. They discuss practical steps for monitoring livestock, documenting animal movements, strengthening biosecurity, and adapting management plans as regulations continue to evolve.

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In this episode, we cover:

  • What screwworm is and why it poses a serious threat to livestock and wildlife
  • How the sterile fly program successfully eradicated screwworm and why it's back in the U.S.
  • What producers in affected areas should do to monitor, treat, and report suspected cases
  • How quarantine zones and changing regulations may affect cattle movement
  • Why stronger biosecurity practices benefit every cattle operation, regardless of location
  • How the outbreak could influence cattle markets and marketing decisions
  • The practical changes Travis has made to his own operation in response to the outbreak

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