REMINDER: Governor Abbott Launches Free NWS Inspector Training To Keep Texas Livestock Moving

~ Last week, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas launched a new online course aimed at expanding the number of certified New World Screwworm (NWS) inspectors across the state. This initiative is crucial in ensuring the safe movement of cattle and livestock and maintaining uninterrupted commerce.

The course, developed by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in partnership with USDA-APHIS, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), was launched on Saturday. It is the first-of-its-kind program and is available for free to all Texans.

Governor Abbott expressed his commitment to protecting the state's cattle industry and wildlife through this training program. He stated, "The State of Texas will use every tool to protect our cattle industry and wildlife while we eradicate this pest." He also commended the quick action taken by AgriLife and TAHC in launching this training program.

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins also emphasized the importance of trained inspectors in stopping the spread of NWS. She urged those who are able to help identify and report suspected cases to join in the fight against this pest. Secretary Rollins expressed her gratitude towards Governor Abbott, TAHC, TPWD, and AgriLife for their partnership in this effort.

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The online course is delivered through the AgriLife Learn platform and consists of narrated modules, demonstration videos, and knowledge checks covering various aspects related to NWS such as biology, surveillance, inspection protocols, roles of state and federal agencies, and movement permitting requirements.

Upon passing the final exam, individuals who meet TAHC eligibility standards can apply to become a TAHC Certified NWS Inspector. These authorized inspectors will be responsible for issuing official NWS Treatment/Movement Certificates for lawful movement of livestock out of infested zones.

In its first phase, eligibility for this program has been extended to licensed veterinarians (not already in the Authorized Personnel Program), veterinary technicians, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents and Disaster Assessment and Recovery agents, Texas Department of Agriculture inspectors, Texas Department of State Health Services Meat Safety inspectors, Texas Racing Commission inspectors, animal control officers, livestock deputies, and designated personnel from temporary livestock aggregation points. Additional groups may be added in future phases as the program evolves. The course is also open to any Texan for educational purposes.

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The course is especially relevant given the threat posed by NWS. It is caused by the larvae of a parasitic fly that lay eggs in open wounds and feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals. However, it is not a contagious disease and does not spread directly from animal to animal. It also does not pose a food safety issue as screwworms do not infest meat or other food products.

In case of suspected cases of NWS, individuals are urged to report immediately to the appropriate authorities. Livestock or pets should be reported to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242 while wildlife should be reported to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at 512-389-4505.

The launch of this online course aligns with the state's aggressive response to NWS under Governor Abbott's leadership. This includes deploying sterile insect technique releases, establishing quarantines in infested zones, and utilizing all available state resources to protect the livestock industry while ensuring business continuity.

Texans are encouraged to enroll in this free online course for educational purposes and contribute towards eradicating NWS from the state. To access the course, individuals can register an account on AgriLife Learn platform, add the course to their cart, and check out.

For more information on NWS and its impact on Texas agriculture, visit screwworm.gov. With trained inspectors across the state, it is hoped that this pest can be eradicated quickly and efficiently while safeguarding the state's valuable livestock industry.

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