ALMDA & LMAT Applauds the First Release of NWS Infested Zones in Texas and New Mexico

The American Livestock Markets and Dealers Association (ALMDA) and the Livestock Marketing Association of Texas (LMAT) applauds the release of the New World Screwworm (NWS) Infested Zones in designated areas of Gillespie, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, and Webb Counties in Texas announced today and the release of the infested zone in New Mexico over the weekend. The release of these zones by the Texas Animal Health Commission and USDA/APHIS marks the first of the infestation zones and surveillance zones since the initial detection of NWS in Texas on June 3, 2026. 

“The release of these zones provides relief for livestock markets and dealers accepting livestock from these areas and returns commerce in these areas back to normal. ALMDA and LMAT appreciates the work of the Texas Animal Health Commission and USDA’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service for their efforts in the response to this invasive pest. We’re hopeful that the remaining zones can be released very soon, but since the detection, our member have continued to serve their customers while contributing to the success of response activities,” said Dale Sandlin, ALMDA Chief Executive Officer and LMAT Executive Director.

The Texas Animal Health Commission announced the release of these zones in Texas on August 31st and USDA/APHIS announced the release of the infested zone in New Mexico on August 30th. Livestock markets and dealers continue to remain engaged in the response efforts and will continue to advocate for our members serving their customers and complying with required response activities.

 To learn more about ALMDA’s NWS response or benefits to membership in ALMDA, visit www.americanlivestock.org.  To learn more about the Livestock Marketing Association of Texas visit www.lmatexas.org.