The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Friday that it will begin a phased reopening of southern cattle ports next month, more than two months after they were shut down due to an outbreak of New World Screwworm (NWS). The livestock port in Douglas, Ariz., is scheduled to reopen Aug. 24 as part of the first phase of operations resuming.
The closure began in May when USDA detected the parasitic fly larvae in cattle crossing from Mexico into Texas. New World Screwworm infestations can be fatal to livestock and pose risks to other animals, including humans. The USDA worked with Mexican authorities to implement treatment protocols before announcing plans to resume trade under enhanced inspection measures.
What the Right Is Saying
Republican lawmakers from cattle-producing states welcomed the announcement as a relief to ranchers who faced uncertainty during the closure. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas called the reopening 'a victory for Texas agriculture' and said it would provide 'certainty our ranchers need heading into the fall season.' The Texas Cattle Raisers Association expressed appreciation for USDA's coordination with Mexican authorities.
Industry groups emphasized the economic importance of resumed trade. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association said the closure cost the industry 'tens of millions of dollars in delayed shipments and increased logistics costs' and called for monitoring to ensure no further disruptions occur.
What the Left Is Saying
Democratic lawmakers from border states have largely supported the USDA's measured approach to reopening. Rep. Joaquin Castro of Texas said the administration took 'a science-based approach that prioritizes the health of our agricultural sector while maintaining necessary safeguards.' The Sierra Club issued a statement noting that the phased reopening demonstrates that 'economic interests and environmental protection can coexist when proper protocols are in place.'
Animal welfare advocates have praised the decision but urged continued vigilance. The Humane Society said it supports 'the careful monitoring systems USDA has put in place' and called for ongoing transparency about inspection results as trade resumes.
What the Numbers Show
The U.S. imported approximately 1.2 million head of cattle from Mexico in 2024, according to USDA data, making it one of the largest sources of live cattle imports. The southern border ports typically process an average of 500 to 600 head of cattle daily during normal operations. The closure affected more than 40 ranching operations across Texas and Arizona that rely on cross-border cattle movement for breeding stock and fattening programs.
The Bottom Line
The reopening marks a return to normal trade patterns but under new protocols designed to prevent future screwworm incursions. USDA has committed to expanded inspection procedures at reopened ports, including mandatory treatment of all incoming livestock. Officials will monitor the situation closely before announcing dates for additional port reopenings in the coming weeks.