Colorado Strengthens Livestock Protections Against New World Screwworm Amid Regional Outbreaks
Colorado agriculture officials are implementing an updated emergency rule to safeguard livestock and other animals from the New World Screwworm. This action comes in response to recent detections of the parasite in Texas and New Mexico, an increase in cases in northern Mexico, and the resumption of international livestock movement. The Colorado Agricultural Commission reviewed the updated rule, which was subsequently adopted by Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg, replacing a previous emergency rule set to expire. The New World Screwworm poses a severe threat as its larvae infest wounds and feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. The new regulations establish clear import requirements for animals originating from known screwworm-infested zones, including pre-movement inspections, Certificates of Veterinary Inspection issued within five days of movement, entry permits, authorized treatment of open wounds, and post-arrival inspections. The rule also grants Colorado officials the au...
