Alabama Cooperative Extension Forage Focus Program

The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of New World screwworm in Zavala County, Texas, which is about 50 miles from the US-Mexico border. This is the first detection of this pest in the United States during this outbreak.

Devastating to warm-blooded animals, the New World screwworm is a live-animal health concern, not a food safety or quality issue. As a preventative measure, livestock producers are encouraged to implement routine fly control in their herds.

If you have a suspected infestation, immediately contact Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier at (334) 240-7253.

For more information about the New World screwworm, read the press release from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries at https://agi.alabama.gov/animalindustries/2026/06/usda-confirms-new-world-screwworm-in-texas/.

Always a proud moment when our graduate students represent us so well!

As a graduate student studying ruminant nutrition and forages at Auburn Univeristy, Duncan McSorley is working alongside Alabama Extension's animal sciences and forages team to provide research-based solutions to Alabama cattle producers. He is gaining valuable experience as he helps the team reserach alternative forages for cattle that can fill nutritional gaps caused by seasonal or economic factors.

“We are looking to see how we can grow the plants, if the cattle want to eat them and how the animal performs after,” McSorley said. “The goal is to confidently recommend plant species that will benefit producers in many ways. We want them to see improved animal and soil health at a lower cost.”

Read more about his experience and work here: https://www.aces.edu/go/6216

Happy Extension Week, Alabama!

Be sure to join us for a webinar highlighting Women In Alabama Agriculture on April 15th at 2:00 PM CT.

We will be hearing from Dr. Kelli Russell about the legacy and impact of women in agriculture and from other Extension specialists and agents on how Extension can provide resources for female farmers! Come to learn what we can do to help your farm and legacy.

Please be sure to register at this link: https://www.aces.edu/event/extension-week-webinar-women-in-ag/

We look forward to seeing you then!