USDA launches $100 million grand challenge to protect U.S. cattle industry from screwworm threat
- ZISK
- Feb 4
- 1 min read
In a move to safeguard U.S. livestock and ranching operations from the screwworm threat, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Jan. 21, 2026, announced the launch of the New World Screwworm Grand Challenge, a major funding initiative designed to accelerate innovative tools, technologies and strategies to combat the northward spread of New World screwworm (NWS).
The grand challenge is part of the USDA’s broader strategy to help shield American agriculture from this destructive parasite, which was eradicated from the U.S. decades ago but has been moving steadily north through Mexico this past year.
Abigail George
January 26, 2026
Comments